The purpose of this study was to investigate the usefulness of wrist arthroscopy for treating intra-articular fractures of the distal radius.

Twenty-two patients with intra-articular fracture of the distal radius received arthroscopic s rgery. Fourteen patients with displaced intra-articular fractures were managed by arthroscopically assisted reduction and fixation. Three patients were treated with limited open reduction and fixation. We analysed the radiologic results, and measured the ranges of motion and grip strengths. Fuctional results were evaluated using the Modified Mayo Wrist Scoring System. The postoperative follow-up period averaged 16.8 months.

All showed articular step-off of less than 1 mm on wrist X-rays taken at the final follow-up (mean 0.3 mm; range, 0-1 mm). The mean arc of range of motion was 89.6% of that on the uninjured side, and the mean grip strength was 87.3% of that of the uninjured side. The average Modified Wrist Score was 91.8 (range, 75-100).

Arthroscopic-assisted surgery is an useful method that provides excellent results with few complications in the treatment of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius.