The clinical study for the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures via volar approach / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To summarize the outcome of volar approach for unstable distal radius fractures, as well as to explore and discuss the more prompt and efficient way with less complications. Methods Volar approach was used for unstable distal radius fractures in 129 cases (140 sides). This study involved 77 males and 52 females with an average age of 43.7 years (range, 15-76 years). According to the Coony universal classification, 36 sides were of type Ⅱ, 7 of type Ⅲ and 97 of type Ⅳ, which included 105 sides of fresh fracture and 35 old ones. Extra-articular reduction was performed under C-arm to restore the palm tilted angle and ulna deviated angle. For those with severe bone defect, artificial bone graft or auto-graft was applied. T-plates were fixed in 32 sides, T-plates with K-wires in 57, external fixators in 13, external fixators with K-wires in 38 respectively. Results The functional recovery was achieved at 3.8 months averagely after operation with a range of 2 to 6 months. The mean follow-up period was 23.6 months ( range, 12-40 months). 91 sides were rated as excellent, 38 as good, 10 fair and 1 poor. The long-term excellent-good rate was 92.1%. Conclusion The volar approach for unstable distal radius fractures has the following advantages: 1)less invasive without compromise to the bone and tendon sheath of distal radius; 2)The volar surface of radius is smooth , easier for plating; 3)no injury to the palmer ligaments and better for recovery; 4)better reduction; 5)avoidance of bone graft displacement; 6) shorten the operation time, less post-operative complication, earlier rehabilitation and faster functional recovery. The volar approach for unstable distal radius fractures is suitable either for internal or external fixation.