Comparison of the effectiveness between external fixations and conservative treatment for distal radial comminuted fracture

Background: Comminuted distal radial fracture is a potentially unstable fracture. It can be managed by external fixation and closed reduction with immobilization by plaster casting. But external fixation has better outcome than plaster casting. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness between external fixations and conservative treatment for distal radial comminuted fracture. Methods: This prospective interventional study was carried out in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University from March, 2013 to September, 2015. 30 patients of distal radial comminuted fracture were selected. Total patients were divided into two groups. In Group A patients were treated by external fixation and in group B patients were treated by plaster cast. Results: In this study, out of 30 patients, majority were male (60%). Mean age was 38.93(±10.45) years in group A and 40.66(±11.04) years in group B. Left side involvement was more 17 (56.7%) than right side 13 (43.3%). After 12 weeks, final follow up in group A 08 (53.3%) patients were recovered with excellent outcome. In group B 06 (40%) patients were recovered with excellent outcome. In group A, 14 (93.3%) patients were satisfactory outcome and in group B, 13 (86.7%) patients were satisfactory outcome. Conclusions: External fixator decreases the complications of re-displacement and shortening for the treatment of comminuted distal radial fracture. It gives more satisfactory radiological, functional and clinical outcome as compared to cast immobilization.