Arthroscopic-assisted reduction of distal radius fractures

The outcomes of seven patients with severe comminuted intraarticular fractures of the distal radius treated by arthroscopic reduction and percutaneous external fixation (ARPEF) were retrospectively reviewed. All of the fractures were classified as C3 types using the AO classification scheme. Outcomes were evaluated using the Gartland and Werley functional criteria, an objective wrist examination, a radiographic analysis, and a self-assessment outcome form at an average follow-up of 27 months (range, 12 to 45 months). All patients were free of pain and had returned to their prior occupations. No patient had articular incongruency of greater than 1 mm, and there was no evidence of radiocarpal degenerative change. Active range of motion and maximal grip strength averaged 92% and 98%, respectively, of the uninjured wrist. The technique of arthroscope-assisted reduction and percutaneous external fixation yielded excellent results in a small group of patients, with minimal complications.