ABSTRACT
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term functional and radiological outcome between Joshi’s externalstabilization systems (JESSs) with volar locking compression plate (LCP) in treatment of unstable distal end radius fractures.Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted which included a total of 50 patients between the age group of20–60 years with fresh closed unstable distal end radius fractures and was randomized into two groups of 25 patients eachand their outcomes were compared.Results: The average period of follow-up was 2 years after which range of motion of the two groups was compared and clinicaland radiological evaluation was done. The functional result according to modified Gartland and Werley scoring was excellent in8%, good in 40%, fair in 48%, and poor in 4% in JESS group while it was excellent in 8%, good in 84%, fair in 4%, and poor in4% in volar LCP group. According to Stewart scoring system, the result was excellent in 8%, good in 40%, fair in 48% cases,and poor in 4% cases in JESS group while it was excellent-good in 88%, fair in 8%, and poor in 4% in the LCP group.Conclusions: The mean time to union was 5.71 months in volar LCP group and 3.75 months in JESS group. The functional andanatomical evaluation of both the groups showed that fixation by volar LCP group had better result in comparison to externalfixation by JESS with accurate maintenance of articular margin. Better functional results can be expected in the early postoperative period in association with open reduction and internal fixation, and this form of treatment should be considered forpatients requiring a faster return to function after the injury, but in the long run, this is comparable with JESS fixation.