Plate Fixation of AO Type C3 Fractures of the Distal Radius

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate clinical and radiographic results of open reduction and internal fixation with plate in AO type C3 distal radius fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We treated 18 fractures and the mean follow up was 16 months. The average age was 47.1 years old, 12 male and 6 female were included. There were 9 C3.1 fracture, 5 C3.2 and 4 C3.3. Green & O'Brien's modified clinical scoring system and Demerit Point system were applied to evaluate clinical results, for radiographic evaluation, radial length, radial inclination, volar tilt, and Sarmiento's Criteria for Anatomic results were assessed. RESULTS: Clinical results were 5 of excellent, 7 of good, and 6 of fair by Green & O'Brien's score and were 5 of excellent, 6 of good, and 7 of fair by Demerit point. There was no significant difference of radiographic results between immediate postoperation and last follow-up, and Sarmiento's Criteria showed 8 excellent, 4 good, and 6 fair. CONCLUSION: The open reduction and internal fixation with plate in AO type C3 distal radius is considered as a good treatment method that particularly benefits from fracture stable fixation without fixation loss and early rehabilitation.