A prospective comparative evaluation of outcome of surgical management of unstable comminuted fracture of distal radius using external and internal fixation

Background: The goal of treatment of distal fracture of radius is restoration of normal function and prevention of complication like malunion, joint stiffness, and deformity but achievement of desired outcome is always a challenge in fracture of distal end of radius. As there is variability in the conclusion of various literature present study has been conducted to evaluation of outcome of surgical management of unstable comminuted fracture of distal radius using external and internal fixation in our clinical conditions. Method: Patients with unstable comminuted fracture of distal radius admitted in the department of orthopaedics and trauma are enrolled for this study based on inclusion and inclusion criteria. For functional assessment of outcome, we used DASH (Disability of the Arm, shoulder and hand) Method. Result:The mean of DASH score was16.24±4.62 in external fixation group and 14.65±3.98 in internal fixation group. Both groups are comparable to each other as it is not statistically significant (P˃ .05). There is no incidence of compressive neuropathy, Sudeck’s osteodystrophy, iatrogenic rupture and nerve injury. Discussion: From present study we can conclude that fracture of distal end of radius is common fracture with male predominance. Injury is more common on right side and fall from height is common mode of injury. DASH score was less in internal fixation group. Post-operative infection was high in infernal fixation group. Functional outcome was better in outcome was better in internal fixation group.