Stabilization of dorsal intra-articular fragment in distal radius fracture after volar locking plate fixation / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the risk factors that may affect the stabilization of dorsal intra-articular fragment in distal radius fracture after volar internal fixation.Methods:A retrospective analysis was performed of the patients with distal radius fracture who had been treated by volar internal fixation at Department of Traumatic Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University from July 2016 to July 2020. After 3D reconstruction of their preoperative CT scans by software Mimics 20.0, 66 patients with a dorsal intra-articular fragment were screened out. They were 31 males and 35 females, aged from 23 to 78 years (average, 53.4 years). By the AO classification, there were 17 case of type C1, 22 cases of type C2, and 27 cases of type C3. The displacement of dorsal intra-articular fragment was judged by X-ray observation on postoperative day 2 and X-ray follow-up at the outpatient department. The 13 patients with displacement of dorsal intra-articular fragment>2 mm were assigned into a displacement group while the other 53 ones into a displacement-free group. The 2 groups were compared in terms of preoperative general data and anatomical data of the dorsal intra-articular fragment (total preoperative displacement, radius-ulnar length, dorsal-volar length, aspect ratio, proximal-distal length and volume) to analyze the correlations between them and displacement.Results:There was no significant difference in preoperative general data (age, gender, affected side, cause of injury or AO classification) between the 2 groups, showing comparability between groups ( P>0.05). All patients were followed up for 6 to 24 months (mean, 14 months) after surgery. There were no postoperative complications like neurovascular lesion or infection. None of the patients in the displacement group underwent revision surgery, and the fractures healed successfully during the postoperative follow-up. The total preoperative displacement in the displacement group was(10.0±1.3) mm, significantly larger than that in the displacement-free group [(7.8±1.5) mm]; the radius-ulnar length in the displacement group was (8.2±1.3) mm, significantly shorter than that in the displacement-free group [(10.8±2.3) mm]; the aspect ratio of the fragment in the displacement group was 1.2±0.2, significantly lower than that in the displacement-free group (1.4±0.2); the fragment volume in the displacement group was (690.5± 201.4) mm 3, significantly smaller than that in the displacement-free group [(995.8±295.0) mm 3]. There were significant differences in the above items between the 2 groups ( P<0.05). Conclusion:The total preoperative displacement, radius-ulnar length, aspect ratio and volume of a dorsal intra-articular fragment are important factors which may affect the displacement of the dorsal fragment after volar internal fixation.

Research and development of fluoroscopy for the detection of dorsal screw penetration in the fixation of distal radius fracture with volar locking plate / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Although the Incidence of irritation, abrasion and rupture of the extensor tendon at the dorsal carpal side of the distal radius caused by internal fixation with volar locking plate is not high, these complications seriously affect the quality of life of the patients. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the latest progress of intraoperative fluoroscopy in the treatment of distal radius fracture with volar locking plate. METHODS: Using the English key words "volar locking plate, distal radius fracture, radiological method", the authors retrieved PubMed for 160 relevant studies published from 2000 to 2019. Using the Chinese key words "fluoroscopy, distal radius fracture, volar plate", the authors searched Wanfang database for 7 relevant studies published from 2000 to 2019. This paper reviewed the literature of intraoperative fluoroscopy in the treatment of distal radius fracture with volar locking plate. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) There are various methods of intraoperative fluoroscopy during volar locking plate fixation for distal radius fracture, such as standard anteroposterior view, lateral view, carpal canal method, skyline, dorsal tangent view and radial groove view. (2) The above common methods still have some limitations in detecting the problem of posterior screw penetration in volar locking plate fixation. The complications such as irritation, abrasion and rupture of the extensor tendon of the dorsal wrist still occur, and the problems brought by the secondary and multiple operations to the patients' life and economy should also be paid attention to. (3) More appropriate intraoperative detection methods should be found, in order to reduce the incidence of complications caused by the internal fixation of the posterior screw with the locking plate on the palmar side.

Resultados clínico-radiológicos en pacientes jóvenes con fractura articular completa de radio distal tratados con placa palmar bloqueada / Clinical and radiological results in young patients with complete articular distal radius fractures treated with volar locked plate

Introducción: Las fracturas articulares completas de radio distal (tipo AO C) en jóvenes representan un desafío por la demanda funcional de este subgrupo y la necesidad de una reducción articular para evitar la artrosis postraumática. El objetivo es evaluar los resultados clínicos y radiológicos de pacientes <65 años con fracturas de radio distal de tipo C tratadas mediante placa palmar bloqueada. Materiales y Métodos: Se analizaron 292 pacientes con fracturas de radio distal, 71 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Cuarenta y cinco eran mujeres (media de la edad 51 años; rango 20-64). El seguimiento promedio fuede 28 meses (rango 6-71). Se realizó una evaluación clínica objetiva (rango de movilidad) y subjetiva de la función (Quick DASH y escala analógica visual funcional) y del dolor (escala analógica visual en reposo y escala de Swanson), además de una valoración radiológica. Resultados: El Quick DASH promedio fue de 8,7 (rango 0-60), con un puntaje en la escala analógica visual funcional de 8,9 (rango 3-10). La movilidad final promedio y comparativa con el lado sano fue: flexo-extensión 91%, pronosupinación 97%, desviaciones cubital-radial 90%. Respecto deldolor, el puntaje promedio en la escala analógica visual fue de 0,4 (rango 0-10). Siempre se recuperaron los parámetros radiológicos extrarticulares, con corrección de 26 de los 29 escalones articulares preoperatorios. Conclusión: En pacientes jóvenes, el tratamiento de las fracturas de radio distal de tipo C con placa palmar bloqueada logra resultados clínicos y radiológicos favorables con corrección de la mayoría de los escalones articulares.

Introduction: The AO type C complete articular distal radius fractures in young patient represent a challenge due to the functional demands of this subgroup of patients and the need for proper articular reduction to prevent post-traumaticarthritis. The aim of the study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological results in patients <65 years with type C distal radius fractures treated with volar locked plate.Methods: Two hundred and ninety two patients with distal radius fractures were evaluated; 71 met the inclusion criteria (45 women and 26 men; mean age 51 years [range 20-64]). The average follow-up was 28 months (6-71). An objective clinical evaluation (range of motion) and a subjective evaluation of the function (Quick DASH and functional visual analogue scale) and of pain (visualanalogue scale at rest and Swanson scale) were conducted, as well as a radiological assessment. Results: Average Quick DASH score was 8.7 (range 0-60) with a functional visual analogue scale score of 8.9 (range 3-10). The average final motion and the comparative motion with the healthy side were: flexion and extension91%, supination 97%, radial-ulnar deviation 90%. As regards pain, average visual analogue scale score was 0.4 (range 0-10). Radiological extra-articular parameters were always recovered, 26 of the 29 preoperative joint steps were corrected. Conclusion: Treatment of type C distal radius fractures in young patients withlocked volar plate shows favorable clinical and radiological results with correction of most articular steps.

Fractura de radio distal: abordaje mininvasivo con preservación del pronador cuadrado / Distal radius fracture: minimally invasive approach with pronator quadratus preservation

Objetivo: Describir y analizar una técnica de osteosíntesis palmar de radio distal con preservación del pronador cuadrado. Materiales y Métodos: Se revisaron, en forma retrospectiva, 24 pacientes operados con esta técnica (16 mujeres y 8 hombres; edad promedio 65 años). Doce fracturas eran de tipo A; 7, de tipo B y 5, de tipo C. La técnica quirúrgica consiste en practicar una incisión cutánea de 25 mm y profundizar hasta observar el pronador cuadrado. Sin seccionarlo, se realiza una disección de su borde distal, a fin de introducir la placa bloqueada volar por debajo del músculo. Se colocan los tornillos distales bajo visión directa y los tornillos proximales, en forma percutánea. La evaluación posoperatoria se llevó a cabo mediante análisis clínico-funcional y radiográfico. Resultados: En el último control, todos los pacientes presentaban signos clínicos y radiográficos de consolidación ósea. El puntaje en la escala DASH fue, en promedio, de 4,8. Se observó una inclinación palmar posoperatoria de la superficie articular del radio de 14,3º promedio y una inclinación radial de 26,3º promedio. No se detectaron complicaciones relacionadas con la fractura, el implante o la herida quirúrgica en ninguno de los controles posoperatorios. Conclusiones: Sin bien no existe bibliografía que demuestre que la técnica mininvasiva sea superior, sostenemos que el hecho de obtener resultados similares con ambos abordajes (mininvasivo y convencional) justifica llevar a cabo esta técnica con preservación del pronador cuadrado, sobre todo en los pacientes preocupados por el aspecto estético de la cicatriz. Nivel de evidencia: IV.

Objective: To describe and analyze a volar locking plate technique for distal radius fractures with pronator quadratus preservation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 24 patients who underwent minimally invasive approach (16 women, 8 men; mean age 65 years). Twelve fractures were type A, 7 type B and 5 type C. The surgical technique involves making an incision of 25 mm and deepened to expose the pronator quadratus. Afterwards, a distal edge dissection of the pronator quadratus is performed in order to introduce the volar locking plate under the muscle. Distal screws are placed under direct vision and proximal screws are placed percutaneously. Postoperative evaluation included clinical, functional and radiological analyses. Results: At last control, all patients had clinical and radiographic signs of bone healing. The average score on the DASH scale was 4.8 points. Postoperative average volar tilt was 14.3° and the average radial inclination was 26.3°. There were no complications related to the fracture, implant or surgical wound in the postoperative controls. Conclusions: Although we did not obtain better results with this technique than with the conventional one, and there is no literature available which demonstrates that the minimally invasive technique is superior, we believe that the fact of getting similar results with both approaches justifies carrying out this technique with pronator quadratus preservation, especially in patients concerned about the cosmetic appearance of the scar. Level of evidence: IV.

Volar Locking Plate Fixation for Distal Radius Fractures in Hemodialysis Patients

PURPOSE: Although the possibility of distal radius fractures is strong in hemodialysis patients, there are many difficult problems such as the bleeding tendency, hypervascularity and injury to arteriovenous fistula. We studied the outcomes of open reduction and volar locking plate fixation of the distal radius fractures in hemodyalisis patients with ipsilateral arteriovenous fistula. METHODS: From 2007 to 2009, a retrospective chart review was performed of eleven hemodialysis patients who underwent volar locking plate fixation for treatment of distal radius fractures. Eight of them were female and three were male and mean age was 68 years (range, 57-81 years). Mean follow-up period was 19 months (range, 12-28 months). All patients had osteoporosis with mean T-score of -2.7. All operations were performed on the next day of hemodialysis. Scheduled hemodialysis was possible on the next day of surgery without splint. We analyzed radiographic results, the wrist range of motion, Mayo wrist score and disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score at the last follow-up. RESULTS: All fractures achieved anatomical reduction and united at final follow-up. Complications such as hematoma or occlusion of arteriovenous fistula were not observed. Mean Mayo wrist score was 78 and mean DASH score was 22. CONCLUSION: Volar locking plate fixation for distal radius fractures provides immediate support for continuing hemodialysis and exercise. Open reduction of the fractures and the use of tourniquet don't seem to increase the vascular complications like hematoma and fistula occlusion.

External Fixation for Distal Radius Fractures

External fixation with or without ancillary K-wire fixation, once being one of the most popular methods of surgery for unstable distal radius fractures, is now losing its position due to a recent surge in the use of volar locking plates. However, these changes are not firmly grounded on scientific evidence. Recent clinical trials showed that a similar wrist function was achieved when the use of external fixation was compared with that of volar locking plates at 1 year after surgery for the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures, even though the rate of functional recovery was slower in the former. In addition, it is still a question whether additional costs and time paid for volar locking plates can be justified by such a small gain in wrist function. We will review recent studies comparing external fixation with volar locking plates regarding wrist function and costs, and discuss current indication of external fixation for unstable distal radius fractures.

Treatment of the Communited Distal Radius Fracture Using Volar Locking Plate Fixation with Allogenic Cancellous Bone Graft in the Elderly

PURPOSE: We studied results of the communited distal radius fracture treated with allogenic cancellous bone graft and volar locking plate in the elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied 29 cases of communited distal radius fracture treated with allogenic cancellous bone graft and volar locking plate from April 2009 to April 2013. Fracture was classified according to AO/OTA classification. Postoperative clinical evaluation was performed with measurement of wrist range of motion (ROM) at last follow-up, modified Mayo wrist scoring system (MMWS), and visual analogue pain scale (VAS). Radiologic evaluation was performed with measurement of radial length on immediate postoperation and last follow-up, radial inclination, volar tilt and ulnar variance checked at the last follow-up using Sarmiento criteria. RESULTS: Using the MMWS, 13 cases were classified as 'good', 10 'fair', and 5 'normal'. The average wrist ROM was 88.5% for flexion, 92.2% for extension, 90.5% for adduction, and 94.0% for abduction. The average VAS was 1.7. On the last follow-up, average radius length, radial inclination and volar tilt did not show statistically significant improvement (p>0.05) compared to immediate post operation measurements, and according to Sarmiento criteria, 5 cases were classified as 'good', 14 'fair', and 7 'normal'. CONCLUSION: Treatment of severe communited distal radius fracture accompanied by bone defect with volar locking plate and allogenic cancellous bone graft is a satisfying and effective treatment method in the elderly.

Treatment of Fractures of the Distal Radius Using Variable-Angle Volar Locking Plate

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate outcome of variable-angle volar locking plate for treatment of distal radius fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the results in 45 cases treated by variable-angle volar locking plate. We evaluated the clinical results according to the Mayo wrist performance scoring system and radiographic results. RESULTS: All cases had bony union. The mean Mayo wrist performance scoring system was 84.8. Between preoperative and immediate postoperative radiographic measurement, the mean radial length improved from 8.4 to 11.8 mm, radial inclination from 14.2degrees to 22.4degrees, volar tilt from -4.5degrees to 9.6degrees, and intraarticular step-off from 1.8 to 0.3 mm (p0.05). All cases showed bone union with no evidence of malunion, nonunion, or metal failure. CONCLUSION: Treatment of distal radius fractures using variable angle volar locking plate showed satisfactory outcomes. It is a good option to obtain stable fixation without significant loss of reduction.

The Fate of Pronator Quadratus Muscle after Volar Locking Plating of Unstable Distal Radius Fractures

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the pronator quadrates muscle in patients who underwent internal fixation with a volar locking plate for unstable distal radius fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty patients who underwent internal fixation with a volar locking plate for unstable distal radius fracture were enrolled. We evaluated the clinical results according to the Mayo wrist score, the wrist range of motion, and the grip strength at the last follow-up. Using ultrasonography, muscle thickness of the pronator quadrates was compared between injured and uninjured arm. RESULTS: Bone union was achieved in all cases. The mean Mayo wrist score was 82.79 points. The grip strength of the injured arm was decreased to 89.1% of the uninjured side. The decrease of pronation range of the injured wrist motions was significant (82.3degrees, p=0.004). There was significant atrophy of the pronator quadrates muscle on the injured side (injured side: 3.19 mm, uninjured side: 4.72 mm, p=0.001); and the decrement of muscle thickness in pronator quadrates showed an association with the Mayo wrist score (r=-0.35, p=0.042). CONCLUSION: These results suggest that continuity of the muscle is maintained after use of the volar locking plating for unstable distal radius fractures with repair of pronator quadrates; however, there is atrophy of pronator quadrates muscle and limitation of pronation in the injured wrist.

Clinical Assessment after the Volar Locking Plate Removal of Distal Radius Fracture

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes after removing the volar locking plate for distal radius fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed retrospectively the medical records of 34 patients, 36 cases after removing the plates among 150 patients, with 162 cases that underwent open reduction and internal fixation using the volar locking plate between January 2006 and May 2011. We performed preoperative and postoperative clinical assessments using the quick-disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (Q-DASH), the visual analog scale (VAS) score, and the range of motion on wrist, grip and pinch power. RESULTS: The major reason for plate removal was the time to remove the plate according to the fracture union and the patient's demand without other specific complaints (28 cases). The mean preoperative VAS score was 1.78 and the mean postoperative VAS score 1.81 (p=0.64). The mean preoperative Q-DASH score was 30.02 and the mean postoperative Q-DASH score 38.46 (p<0.001). The mean preoperative grip and pinch power were 18.14 kg and 7.67 kg. The mean postoperative grip and pinch power were 15.27 kg and 6.94 kg (p=0.23). CONCLUSION: The removal of the volar locking plate for distal radius fracture should be decided by considering the patient's clinical and socioeconomic conditions carefully.

Radiologic Results in Accordance with the Number of Distal Locking Screws in Volar Plate Fixation for Distal Radius Fractures

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the number of distal locking screws affected the final radiologic results after volar plate fixation for distal radius fractures. METHODS: We retrospectively identified 176 patients (male, 36; female, 140; average, 60 years) who had distal radius fractures treated with open reduction and volar plate fixation between 2011 and 2012. The number of screws used for distal fixation was determined according to the surgeon's preference and the type of plate used. Radiologic parameters and their displacements were measured postoperatively and at final follow-up. The results of using 4 or 5 distal locking screws were compared with those of using more than 6 distal locking screws. RESULTS: There was no significant displacement in fracture fragment when using 4 or 5 distal locking screws compared with using more than 6 distal locking screws. Mean displacement in ulnar variance was 0.6 mm in group with less than 5 screws, and the displacement was 0.4 mm in group with more than 6 screws (p=0.772). Secondary displacement was not correlated with fracture type or the number of distal locking screws. There was no fixation failure during the study period. CONCLUSION: It seems that 4 or 5 distal locking screws are strong enough to prevent a significant loss of fracture reduction. Filling every distal screw hole is not recommended to limit cost and avoid extensor tendon complications.

Korean Type Distal Radius Anatomical Volar Plate System: A Preliminary Report

BACKGROUND: Distal radius fracture is the most common fracture of the upper extremity, and approximately 60,000 distal radius fractures occur annually in Korea. Internal fixation with an anatomical volar locking plate is widely used in the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures. However, most of the currently used distal radius anatomical plate systems were designed based on the anatomical characteristics of Western populations. Recently, the Korean-type distal radius anatomical volar plate (K-DRAVP) system was designed and developed based on the anatomical characteristics of the distal radius of Koreans. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the preliminary results of the new K-DRAVP system, and to compare its radiologic and functional results with those of the other systems. METHODS: From March 2012 to October 2012, 46 patients with acute distal radius fractures who were treated with the K-DRAVP system at three hospitals were enrolled in this study. Standard posteroanterior and lateral radiographs were obtained to assess fracture healing, and three radiographic parameters (volar tilt, radial inclination, and radial length) were assessed to evaluate radiographic outcomes. The range of motion and grip strength, the Gartland and Werley scoring system, and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire were used to assess clinical and functional outcomes. RESULTS: All radiologic parameters were restored to normal values, and maintained without any loosening or collapse until the time of final follow-up. Grip strength was restored to 84% of the value for the unaffected side. The mean range of motion of the wrist at final follow-up was restored to 77%-95% of the value for the unaffected side. According to the Gartland and Werley scoring system, there were 16 excellent, 26 good, and 4 fair results. The mean DASH score was 8.4 points. There were no complications after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The newly developed K-DRAVP system could be used to restore and maintain good anatomical parameters, and provide good clinical outcomes with low complication rates. This system is a promising surgical option for the treatment of distal radius fractures in the Korean population.

Relationship between the Length of Distal Locking Screws and Diaphyseal Screws in Volar Plate Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures

PURPOSE: To determine the relationship between the length of distal locking screws and diaphyseal screws in volar plate fixation of distal radius fractures. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of 169 patients who underwent volar locking plate fixation for treatment of distal radius fractures. All patients received 2.4 mm LCP volar extra-articular distal radius plate (DePuySynthes). The length of the diaphyseal screw which was placed in the elongated hole was correlated with the length of a distal locking screw from radial most (D1) to ulnar most (D4). We also evaluated distal screw penetration of the dorsal cortex and plate removal rate. RESULTS: The length of the diaphyseal screw which was placed in the elongated hole strongly correlated with the length of a distal locking screw. Average D1 screw length was 2 mm longer than the diaphyseal screw, and average D2 screw length was 4 mm longer than the diaphyseal screw. D3 and D4 screw were 6 mm longer than the diaphyseal screw. Plate removal was necessary in 13 patients (8%) due to screw irritation. These patients had significantly longer screws than average. Flexor or extensor tendon ruptures did not occur in this cohort. CONCLUSION: The length of the distal locking screws can be estimated with the length of the diaphyseal screw. This information may help surgeons to select the adequate length of distal locking screws during volar plating of distal radius fractures.

Comparative Analysis of the Results of Fixed-angle versus Variable-angle Volar Locking Plate for Distal Radius Fracture Fixation

PURPOSE: To compare the outcomes of distal radius fractures in a fixed-angle volar locking plate group and variable-angle volar locking plate group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-one patients observed at least 6 months after surgery were included in this retrospective study. We used the range of motion, visual analogue scale score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire score, and radiologic findings to measure the clinical results. RESULTS: No differences in clinical results or radiologic results were noted between the fixed-angle volar locking plate group and variable-angle volar locking plate group. CONCLUSION: We believe that it is important to minimize complications by using appropriate screws and plates according to the fracture type, though no differences in the surgical outcome were noted between the fixed-angle volar locking plate group and variable-angle volar locking plate group with distal radius fracture.

Treatment of the Unstable Distal Radius Fractures Using Volar Locking Plate Fixation / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiological results after open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal radius fractures by using volar locking plates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: There were 73 consecutive unstable distal radius fractures treated by open reduction internal fixation using a volar locking plate. The mean age of patients was 55.5 years (range: 17-85 years): the study included 41 women and 32 men. The mean duration of follow up was 25.5 months (6.1-63.7 months). There were 18 type A, 5 type B, and 50 type C fractures by AO classification. For clinical evaluation, Green & O'Brien's modified scoring system and Demerit Point system were used. For radiological evaluation, radiographic index (radial length and radial inclination, volar tilt and ulnar variance) and Sarmiento's Criteria for Anatomic results were assessed. And, clinical results, the difference of mentioned radiographic index at preoperation, and immediate postoperative and last follow-up were compared according to AO classification and bone mineral density (BMD). RESULTS: Clinical results by the Green & O'Brien's scoring system were as follows: 46 excellent, 17 good, 9 fair, 1 poor by demonstrating more than good results in 86.3% of all cases. According to the Demerit point system, there were 50 excellent, 16 good, and 7, which showed more than good results in 90.4% of all cases. Bone union was achieved in all cases. Sarmiento Criteria showed 36 excellent, 21 good, and 16 fair. There were statistically significant improvements between preoperative and postoperative radial length, radial inclination, volar tilt and ulnar variance (p<0.05), whereas there were no statistically significant differences between those at immediate postoperative and last follow-up. There were no statistically significant differences in clinical results, measurements of radial length, radial inclination, volar tilt and ulnar variance between intragroup and intergroup, or in immediate postoperative and last follow-up according to fracture type and BMD. CONCLUSION: Volar locking plate fixation for distal radius fracture offers rigid fixation with insignificant reduction loss. It enables early rehabilitation and showed satisfactory clinical and radiological results. It is considered as an effective treatment option, regardless of fracture type and osteoporosis.

The Results of Unstable Distal Radius Fracture Following Volar Locking Plate Fixation in Elderly Patients / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purposes of this prospective study were to find out whether the reduction is maintained 1 year after the volar locking plate fixation of unstable distal radius fracture in elderly patients, and to evaluate the effect of the patient's age and bone mineral density (BMD) on the maintenance of radiographic reduction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-eight patients aged 65 years or older, with an unstable distal radius fracture were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with the volar locking plate system. Plain radiographs of the wrist, obtained immediately after surgery, were compared with those taken 1 year postoperatively. The evaluated radiographic parameters included radial inclination, volar tilt, ulnar variance and step off. The authors also evaluated correlations between patient factors of age and BMD and the postoperative changes of the four radiographic parameters. RESULTS: Initial surgical reduction of unstable distal radius fractures was maintained in all 38 patients for 1 year after surgery. No significant correlation was found between patient factors of age, and BMD and the postoperative changes of radiographic parameters during the first year after surgery. CONCLUSION: Using volar locking plate for initial reduction was maintained until bony union in elderly patients and showed satisfactory outcome. Also, there was no correlation found in between postoperative changes of radiographic parameters, and the age of patients and BMD until the final bony union.

Short Term Results of AO Type C Fractures of the Distal Radius Treated with Volar Locking Plating System

PURPOSE: To evaluate clinical and radiological results of AO type C distal radius fractures treated with a volar locking plating system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 31 patients with AO type C distal radius fracture treated with a volar locking plating system. We evaluated the clinical results according to the Mayo wrist performance scoring system and disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score and evaluated the radiographic results. RESULTS: All cases had bony union. The mean Mayo wrist performance score was 81.9. The mean DASH score was 11.2. Between preoperative and immediate postoperative radiographic measurements, the mean radial length was improved from 8.8 mm to 13mm, radial inclination from 14.7degrees to 22.5degrees, volar tilt from -11.3degrees to 9.4degrees and intra-articular step-off from 2.2 mm to 0.3 mm (p0.05). Internal fixation using volar locking compression plate could allow early postoperative exercise and could result in low incidence of postoperative complication. All cases showed bone union showing no evidence of malunion, nounion, nor metal failure. CONCLUSION: Treatment of AO type C fractures using a volar locking plate showed satisfactory outcomes. It is a good option to obtain stable fixation without significant loss of reduction.

Short Term Results of AO Type C Fractures of the Distal Radius Treated with Volar Locking Plating System

PURPOSE: To evaluate clinical and radiological results of AO type C distal radius fractures treated with a volar locking plating system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 31 patients with AO type C distal radius fracture treated with a volar locking plating system. We evaluated the clinical results according to the Mayo wrist performance scoring system and disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score and evaluated the radiographic results. RESULTS: All cases had bony union. The mean Mayo wrist performance score was 81.9. The mean DASH score was 11.2. Between preoperative and immediate postoperative radiographic measurements, the mean radial length was improved from 8.8 mm to 13mm, radial inclination from 14.7degrees to 22.5degrees, volar tilt from -11.3degrees to 9.4degrees and intra-articular step-off from 2.2 mm to 0.3 mm (p0.05). Internal fixation using volar locking compression plate could allow early postoperative exercise and could result in low incidence of postoperative complication. All cases showed bone union showing no evidence of malunion, nounion, nor metal failure. CONCLUSION: Treatment of AO type C fractures using a volar locking plate showed satisfactory outcomes. It is a good option to obtain stable fixation without significant loss of reduction.

K-wire Fixation Supplemented with External Fixator Versus Volar Locked Plating for Unstable Fractures of the Distal Radius

PURPOSE: To campare the outcomes between K-wire fixation with supplementary external fixator and volar locking plate in the treatment of the unstable distal radius fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 26 unstable AO type C3 distal radius fracture retrospectively, treated from January 2004 to February 2009. They were divided into two groups; group I (14 cases of open reduction and K-wire fixation supplemented with a external fixator) and group II (12 cases of volar locked plating). Each group was statistically compared in terms of surgery time, the difference of radiologic reduction, and loss of reduction, range of motion (ROM) and Mayo wrist score. RESULTS: No statistical difference was found in terms of surgery time, radiologic reduction, and loss of reduction between two treatment groups. After 1 year of surgery, the Mayo wrist score of group I was 80.5 points, and group II was 80, which shows that both groups achieved fairly good score. Although group II gained a statistically significant improvement in the ROM of the wrist except pronation at postoperative three months, no statistical difference of ROM was found between two groups at postoperative 1 year. CONCLUSION: When it comes to the treatment for an unstable intra-articular distal radius fracture, clinical and radiological outcomes are comparable between the patients treated with K-wire fixation supplemented with a external fixator and those with a volar locking plate.

Volar Plating of Distal Radius Fractures

Volar plating seems to indicate that many surgeons believe it leads to superior results, and is attractive because of the ease of the operative approach and the soft tissue sleeve to protect digital and wrist tendons. And also it have a locking mechanism to produce the fixed angle device with a low profile and may be thought to be a new era in the surgical treatment of dorsally displaced distal radius fractures even in the face of comminuted or osteoporotic bone. Locked volar plating allows direct fracture reduction, stable fixation and provides stability enough to allow early mobilization and function. The results with volar locking or fixed angle fixation for the general treatment of unstable distal radius fractures in elderly patients has been favorable. Volar plating has fewer complications than external fixation and dorsal plating and allow for earlier return to function. The current indications, technical aspects, clinical results, and complications of the volar plating are being reviewed.