Treatment of unstable distal radial fractures with volar locking compression plate (LCP) / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To report and evaluate the treatment results of unstable distal radial fractures with volar locking compression plate (LCP). Methods 46 cases of unstable fractures of distal radius were treated with open reduction and LCP fixation through volar approach from April 2002 to May 2004. 14 of which underwent bone graft and 12 postoperative immobilization with plaster sprint. Results A follow-up of 6 to 30 (mean 21) months revealed bone union in all cases with a mean volar deviation angle of 9.7?and a mean ulna deviation of 21.3?of the distal radius. The wrist functions were evaluated by the modified Gartland and Werley system only to find 32 excellent cases, 11 good ones, 2 fair ones, and 1 poor one. Conclusions The unstable distal radial fractures can effectively be treated with open reduction and LCP fixation through volar approach. The subsidence of the radial articular surface can well be prevented and bone healing accelerated with supplementary bone graft.