A study of functional outcome of distal end radius fractures treated by dorsal radius plating

Abstract

Aims: To identify the current pattern of distal end radius fractures (presenting to this institute) requiring internal fixation with dorsal radius plating.To determine the outcome of fixation of distal end radius fractures using dorsal radius plating.To study complications following fracture surgery and to assess possible risk factors for complicationsObjectives: To study patient characteristics, mechanism of injury and fracture morphology of fractures requiring internal fixation using dorsal radius plating.To analyze outcome factors like functional score, surgical complications, radiological parameters, union status and union time of distal end radius fractures.To establish possible patient, fracture and implant characteristics that could contribute to the outcome.This study is an attempt to evaluate 44 cases of dorsal radius plating in case of distal end radius fracture and to assess the functional outcomes of dorsal radius plating. To ascertain whether modifiable characteristics like timing of surgery, implant positioning etc. contribute significantly to the outcome of distal radius fractures treated using dorsal radius plating. In our study out of 44 patients, 27 male and 17 female patients enrolled in study with mean age of 44 years (range 19-70). All patients had union at the final follow up at 3 months. Our study has a male preponderance with 61.36%.In our study dominant side is involved 65.90%. In our study based on AO classification we had 14(31.81%) of type A fracture, 10(22.72%) of type B and 20 (45.45%) of type C fractures. At final follow up 3 patients had less than 60 degree palmar flexion and 5 patients had less than 60 degree dorsiflexion. No patients had difficulty in radial and ulnar deviation.1 patient had movement restriction as a late complication. In our study average duration of fracture union was 7 weeks. Dorsal radius plating remains the standard treatment in dorsally displaced distal end radius fractures. Dorsal plates are used in all age groups, including osteoporotic fractures. Dorsal plating does not significantly increase operative time. Dorsal plating has a significantly low hospital stay. Functional range of motion are achieved for the patients even to continue activities involving labor work. Complications of dorsal plating are minimal and are comparable to any other orthopaedic surgical procedure. Proper reduction of fracture and surgical exposure is required for better outcomes of such fixations. Use of dorsal plates in distal radius fractures provides good to excellent results with correction and maintenance of distal radial anatomy.