Discussion of the mechanism of using continuous traction in treating unstable distal radius fracture

OBJECTIVE: To explore the mechanism of continuous traction in treating unstable distal radius fracture. METHODS: Thirty patients with unstable distal radius fractures were treated by diaplastic external fixator including 4 males and 26 females with an average age of 61 years ranging from 18 to 85 years. According to AO classification, 12 cases were type A3, 3 were type B2, 8 were type C1, 4 were type C2, 3 were type C3. The distance of the processus radial malleolus and ulnar articularis were measured through X-ray examination. RESULTS: Thirty patients were followed-up for 6 to 15 months with an average of 11.2 months. The results of distance before treatment measuring in X-ray was (0.55+/-0.22) cm, and the distance after treatment was (1.07+/-0.23) cm. The distance after treatment was higher than the distance before treatment, there were significant difference between them (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Continuous traction by diaplastic external fixator can explain by the theory of tendon reinforced bone and ligament restoration, or distraction osteogenesis.