Treatment of distal radius fractures with the external fixator

The external fixator has a firmly established place in the treatment of distal radius fractures, including complex fractures (AO C2 and C3). Its use is also indicated for open fractures and compartment syndrome in the lower arm. In the context of "damage control orthopaedics" the external fixator is used in the distal radius as a fast, minimally invasive method of treatment in multiply injured and polytraumatised patients. Open reduction and internal fixation with plates (ORIF) can then be performed after consolidation of the soft tissue mantle and the patient's general condition. Depending the fracture type and overall injury pattern complete healing can be achieved while the fixator is in place, with further supportive care as appropriate (K-wires, cancellous bone). The downside of treatment with the fixator is the long period of immobilization of the wrist with a protracted rehabilitation. Non-joint-bridging external fixators can have an advantage in individual cases. In the long term, there is no significant difference in the range of movement and strength developed after fracture treatment with internal rather than external fixators.