Treatment of unstable Colles' fractures with a new radius mini-fixator.

An external fixator has been developed that is confined to the radius. It is lightweight, has a low profile, and its application is uncomplicated. Because the fixator provides rigid fixation of the fracture fragments, it has the important advantage of allowing immediate active wrist exercises, thus facilitating early restoration of mobility. The radius mini-fixator has been effective in the treatment of unstable Frykman Type I and II Colles' fractures that account for 36.3% in Frykman's series. It has also been used to stabilize osteotomies of the radius for malunited Colles' fractures.