The long-term results of a method of treatment for comminuted Colles' fracture by closed reduction and internal fixation were studied. Both anatomical and functional end results were determined by rigid criteria and compared. Our conclusions were:
1. The method makes it possible to achieve, in severely comminuted Colles' fracture, excellent anatomical and functional results.
2. The anatomical and functional results do not correlate completely; however, outstandingly good anatomical restoration by this method invariably yields a fine functional result, whereas very poor anatomical results are associated with poor functional results.
3. The technique must be carried out with extreme care and accuracy in both placement of the pin and decision for time of removal.
4. This method, when employed skillfully, has advantages over other skeletal-fixation techniques in that no pin-tract infections have occurred and there can be no interference with function of the hand due to scarring in the metacarpal area.