Background and Objectives: Preservation of the articular congruity is the principle prerequisite for successful recovery following distal radius fractures. The best method of obtaining and maintaining an accurate restoration of articular anatomy however, remains a topic of considerable controversy. External fixator with distractor (UMEX) method is one of the treatment for distal end of radius fracture the main aim of this study is to evaluate the results obtained by treatment of distal end radius fractures by external fixation.

Method: In a prospective controlled study, 30 cases of unstable distal end radius fractures with intra-articular extension were treated by external fixator with distractor (UMEX) using the principle of ligamentotaxis. Mean age of the patients was 42.5 years, external fixator with distractor (UMEX) was applied for a mean duration of 6.5 weeks and cases were followed up for an average of 9 months post operatively.

Results: Assessed as per clinical scoring system of Green DP and O’Brien et al. for functional results at the end of 9 months of follow up. Excellent to good functional result was noted in 90%.

Conclusion: External fixation with distractor (Umex) and ligamentotaxis provides better functional and anatomical results in comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures. The successful use of external fixator with distractor for distal end radial fractures requires careful assessment of fracture pattern, appropriate patient selecting meticulous surgical techniques appropriate choice of fixation, careful post-operative monitoring and aggressive early institution of rehabilitation. The final functional results of treatment of distal end radius fractures not only depends on the anatomical restoration of the articular surface but also on the associated soft tissue injuries and articular damage.