Open radiocarpal fracture-dislocations

Abstract

Ten open radiocarpal fracture-dislocations in nine patients were treated by wound debridement, open reduction, and maintenance of reduction by casting supplemented with internal or external fixation. Eight patients had associated fractures or dislocations of the ipsilateral extremity: elbow fracture or dislocation (three patients), shoulder fracture (one patient), fractured humerus (two patients), and phalangeal fractures (three patients). In seven of ten cases the median and/or ulnar nerve was severely contused and required immediate decompression. Six patients were followed at least 15 months. All had mild asymptomatic sensory neurologic deficit, diminished range of motion of the wrist, and wrist pain with activity. The prognosis should be guarded.