Volar T-shape plate fixation for unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly patient / 中国矫形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

[Objective]To evaluate outcome of the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly patient using a volar T-shape plate.[Method]From January 2001 to April 2003,42 cases with unstable distal radius fractures older than 60 years(range 60～75 years;mean age 65.1 years) were treated with a T-shape plate fixation.The fractures were classified according to the AO classification of distal radius fracture 4 A2,7 A3,5 B1,3 B3,9 C l,11 C2,3 C3.Artificial bone graft substitutes were used in 28 cases with severe cortex destruction and insufficient buttress.[Result]All patients were followed up(mean 18.2months,range 12～24months).Final volar tilt was averaged 3.66? and radial tilt 20.1?,and radial shortening averaged 1.59 mm in 6 cases.Step-off or gap of the articular surface was found in 6 cases(mean