ABSTARCT:

OBJECTIVES :

The objectives of the study are to compare the efficacy of external fixator /ligamentotaxis and volar plating in treatment of displaced intra-articular distal end radius fracture by comparing the functional outcome using the Green and O’Brien score and to assess the radiological outcome of displaced intra-articular distal end radius fracture treated with external fixtator /ligamentotaxis and volar plate.

METHODS:

This randomized study was done from August 2022 to May 2024 at GIMSR Medical College and Hospital on 70 patients. 35 patients underwent volar plating and 35 patients underwent external fixation. Functional outcomes were assessed at 3 and 6 months using Cooney modification of Green and O’Brien scores, and radiological outcomes were assessed using Sarmiento radiological score.

RESULTS:

By 6 months, both groups had comparable functional outcomes. The volar plating group achieved excellent results in 71.4% of cases versus 48.5% in external fixation group. Radiological parameters like palmar tilt, radial shortening, and deviation, showed no significant differences. Complications were similar between groups. Superficial pin tract infections more found to be common in external fixation group and surgical site infections in volar plating group.

CONCLUSION:

Volar plating provided superior early functional outcomes, especially in grip strength, but both methods show comparable long-term results. Treatment choice should consider patient-specific factors, including bone quality and need for early mobilization.