Treatment of unstable distal radial fracture using locked plate

ABSTRACT

Fractures of the distal part of the radius are common. The treatment of these fractures can be challenging. The aim of treatment is to gain anatomical reduction and early mobilization. Twenty-five patients underwent openreduction and internal fixation ofan madequately reduced distal radial fracture with use of the volar locking plating system. Patients were enrolled in the present study three months after the fracture on the basis of strict entry criteria and were evaluated three, six and twelve months after surgery. Outcome measures included radiographic parameters, grip strength, lateral pinch strength, wrist range of motion, and the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire. The mean age at the time of the study was 49 years. According to the A.O classification there were 11 patients [type A fracture], 8 patients [type B fracture] and 6 patients [type C fracture]. Radiographic assessment showed that the plating system maintained anatomic reduction at the follow-up periods, at the time of the twelve-month follow-up. The volar locking plating system appears to provide effective fixation when used for the treatment of initially inadequately reduced distal radial fractures and allow early mobilization