Ligamentotaxis for comminuted distal radial fractures modified by primary cancellous grafting and functional bracing: long-term results.

Ligamentotaxis with the use of external fixator offers a sound method for treating comminuted distal radial fractures. In an effort to shorten the period of external fixation, primary cancellous bone grafting and functional bracing were used as an adjunct to ligamentotaxis. The external fixator was left in place for 3 weeks, followed by functional bracing for another 3 weeks. This paper presents the results of 54 patients with an average follow-up of 31.5 months. Results showed that 80% of the patients regained full range of motion in their hands, wrists, and forearms. More than 80% of the patients regained strong and pain-free wrist functions. Radiologically, there was no loss of reduction or shortening. Nine percent of patients suffered mild arthritic changes in the radiocarpal joints. Final assessment showed that 90% of patients had excellent or good results. Late complications were minimal, apart from the problems of the distal radio-ulnar joints.