Publication:

Study on functional outcome of distal radius intra-articular fractures managed by ligamentotaxis: a cross sectional study

Background Fractures of the distal radius continue to be the one of the most common skeletal injuries treated by an orthopaedic surgeon. They are the most common fractures of the upper extremity and account for 15-20% of all fractures. All intra articular fractures need good reduction for better functional outcome. There are multiple treatment methods from casting to arthroscopic surgeries. This study has been undertaken to study the functional outcomes of distal radius intra-articular fractures managed by ligamentotaxis. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of distal radial intra-articular fractures treated by ligamentotaxis.

Methods This cross sectional study was conducted in Orthopaedic department of Kilpauk Medical College between April 2017 to April 2019 on 60 patients with fracture of the distal end of radius, with comminuted fracture, who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study. All fractures were managed by ligamentotaxis and were followed regularly and assessed after four months for their functional outcomes.

Results 80% of the study population were males. Around 67% of the study population had type III or type IV fracture according to Frykman’s classification. 84% of the study population had better prognosis with ligamentotaxis. The difference between mean Mayo wrist score between affected side and normal side was not statistically significant.

Conclusions Ligamentotaxis, external fixation for comminuted intra articular distal radius fractures is safe and effective treatment. It is also cost effective.