External fixation of complex carpal dislocations: a preliminary report.

In ten cases of complex carpal fracture dislocations an external fixator between the radius and the second or third metacarpals was used as an adjunct to open reduction and internal fixation. The external fixator facilitates reduction, ligamentous repair, and internal fixation of the carpal bones. Furthermore, continuous postoperative distraction of the wrist maintains a stable reduction of the carpus permitting cast free after treatment and early active motion of the neighboring joints. This method is particularly useful for carpal stabilization when combined injuries of the same extremity coexist.