Distal radius fractures. Multiplanar ligamentotaxis.

Abstract

Ligamentotaxis is the principle of molding fracture fragments into alignment as a result of tension applied across a fracture by the surrounding intact soft tissues. Uniplanar ligamentotaxis obtained by longitudinal traction does not always restore palmar tilt to the distal radius. Multiplanar ligamentotaxis extends the principle of uniplanar ligamentotaxis to include translation of the hand in the dorsal-palmar and the radial-ulnar planes to effect appositional and tilting alignment of the distal fragment(s) of a fractured radius. Use of an external fixator that allows adjustments in multiple planes helps restore anatomic alignment and maintain fracture reduction during healing.