Five-pin external fixation and early range of motion for distal radius fractures.

One of the continuing dilemmas in the treatment of distal radius fractures is how best to reduce residual dorsal angulation and impacted articular fragments. Although external fixation devices may maintain radial length, individual fracture fragments may still heal in a displaced or angulated position. The addition of a dorsal pin in combination with an external fixation device can easily correct the dorsal tilt found in many fractures of the distal radius. Although not necessary in all fractures, this additional pin helped with reduction of those fractures that would not improve with traction and with maintenance of reduction.