Analysis of the Variables Affecting the Outcome of Management of Distal Radius Fractures with a Variable-Angle Volar Locking Plate

Abstract

Background: The new low-profile plates and locking systems have popularized surgical options. Treatment modalities exist for surgical management of distal radius fractures, including open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with volar or dorsal plates and screws. Objectives: This study aimed to find a possible correlation between various parameters, either patient-related (age, bone quality) or fracture-related (type, reduction), and to analyze the impact of these factors on the radiological and clinical outcome of distal radius fractures treated by a variable-angle volar locking plate. Patients and Methods: The study included 18 patients suffering from fractures of the distal radius admitted to the Orthopedic Department in Zagazig University Hospital. All patients were operated from January 2019 to June 2019. A total of 18 patients complete at least 6 months follow up period. Results: The results were assessed according to the disabilities of arm, shoulder, and hand scoring system (DASH score), eight patients had excellent results with average 3.54 ±1.23, eight patients had good results with average 9.71 ±1.97. Conclusions: There was a negative correlation between patients’ age, sex, type of fracture, or presence of an associated ulnar styloid fracture and the final score. This correlation was statistically insignificant. A correlation was found between the affected dominant hand or number of rows of distal screws and the final functional score. this was found to be statistically significant.