Experimental Substantiation of the Possibility of Wrist Joint Arthroscopy Under Distraction with External Fixation Apparatus

Abstract

In cases of splintered intra-articular distal radius fractures, it is important to accurately restore the joint surface. Wrist joint arthroscopy makes possible accurate assessment of intra-articular damage and reposition quality. The joint gap is to be enlarged for arthroscopy, but this can distort the topographic and anatomical relationships in the wrist joint. We performed a cadaveric study of changes in the topography of vessels and nerves and the risk of their traumatization under conditions of distraction with external fixation apparatus during arthroscopic portals formation. It was experimentally demonstrated that the use of external fixator did not limit the possibility of manipulation under arthroscopic control; distraction does not alter the topographic and anatomical relationships of the soft tissue elements in the wrist joint during arthroscopy.