Treatment of the Unstable Distal Radius Fracture with External Fixation and Bone Cement in Elderly Patients

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the functional and radiologic results in the using of external fixation with bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate, PMMA) for unstable, osteoporotic distal radius fractures in elderly patients that have high morbidity and chronic medical problems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 12 cases of 12 patients who were treated by external fixation and bone cement for unstable distal radius fractures in the aged persons with poor general condition from January 2003 to July 2004 and followed over one year. We analyzed the radiologic results, and measured the ranges of motion and grip strengths. Functional results were evaluated using the Modified Mayo Wrist Scoring System. RESULTS: Radiographically, mean volar tilt, mean radial inclination and mean radial length were 8.33o, 24.66 mm and 11.31o respectively on the last follow-up. The mean arc of range of motion was 74.4% of that the uninjured side, and the mean grip strength was 78.0% of that the contralateral side. The average Modified Mayo Wrist Score was 78.3. There were reflex sympathetic dystrophy in a case and pin tract infection in 3 cases as complications associated with external fixator. CONCLUSION: External fixation and bone cement is useful method for radial length maintenance, preventing reduction loss, restoring the articular surface, early exercise of the wrist joint without morbidity of donor site for unstable distal radius fractures requiring autogenous bone graft in the elderly patients.