Treatment of unstable distal radius fracture by surgical operation

Objective To evaluate the effects of surgical operation on unstable distal radius fracture.Methods Sixty-two cases of unstable distal radius fracture were treated by surgical operation from 2002 to 2005.In all the patients,male 25,female 37,age 48-81 years(mean 65.5 years).According to AO classification,B1 type 5 cases,B2 type 10 cases,B3 type 8 cases,C1 type 15 cases,C2 type 16 cases,C3 type 8 cases.Thirty-eight cases by open reduction and internal fixation with titanium T plate and screws,10 cases by open reduction and external fixation,14 cases by open reduction and external fixation combined minimum internal fixation.Results All the 62 patients were followed-up for 4-12 months(mean 7.3 months),bone union was seen in all 62 cases.The volar tilting angle 5°-12°(mean8.2°),the ulnar inclining angle 16°-23°(mean 20.2°).There was no shortening of the radius.According to Aro function evaluating standard,87% of the patients had obtained quite satisfying results.Conclusion Taking different surgical operation methods for the different type of the unstable distal radius fracture can obtain satisfying results.