Abstract
FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL FIXATION OF LOWER END RADIUS FRACTURES

Fractures of lower end radius are most common fractures of the upper extremity, encountered in practice and constitute 17 % of all fractures. The present study was conducted with the aim of fixation of these fractures by external fixators and volar locking compression plating (LCP) and to optimize the treatment of different fractures. 128 adult patients with fracture of lower end radius were included in a randomized prospective study. 18 patients were lost in follow-up and were excluded from study. External fixators and locking compression plates (LCP) were applied .Results were calculated according to Gartland and Werley criteria, 110 cases were included in randomized prospective study, 85.45% (n= 94) were males and 14.54 % (n=16) were females. 52.7% fractures were of left and 47.3% were of right side. RTA was commonest (61.81%) injury mode. Largest number of cases was of Frykman’s Type III (30). 84 cases were fixed by LCP and 26 by external fixators. According to Gartland and Werley criteria results were excellent in 7.27% (n=8), Good in 78.18% (n=86), Fair in 12.72 %(n=14) and Poor in 1.81%(n=2). Stabilizing the fracture fragments with volar locking compression plate and external fixators in the management of the fractures of distal radius is an effective method.