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

ABSTRACT

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.