Outcome of Unstable Fractures of the Distal Radius in Elderly Patients —External Fixator versus Non-operative Treatment—

Abstract

A consecutive series of patients aged 60 and over with unstable fractures of the distal radius were treated by external fixator (n=11) or non-operative treatment (n=21). Outcome of the treatment was assessed by Saito's scoring system. Patients treated by the external fixator had a statistically significant improvement in radial inclination (mean 21.5°), and volar tilt (mean 10°), as compared with the group treated by cast alone. However, there were no significant differences in functional outcome in terms of range of movement, grip strength, complications, and patients' satisfaction between both groups. A significant number of patients had good functional outcome and were satisfied with their results, even when malunion existed. We concluded that non-operative treatment is appropriate for unstable fracture of the distal radius in elderly patients.