Arthroscopic Assessment of Soft Tissue Injuries in Comminuted intra-articular Fractures of the Distal Radius

Abstract

Objective To diagnose and evaluate soft tissue injuries in intra-articular fractures of the distal radius using arthroscopy. Methods Twenty young patients with displaced intra-articular fractures of distal radius were recruited in this prospective study. Three AO C2 and 17 C3 fractures were included. After arthroscopic examination fractures of distal radius were treated by external fixation with limited internal fixation or open plate fixation. Results Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury was found in 18 patients (90%). Most were isolated Palmer type ID injuries (67%). Scapho-lunate ligament injury was found in two patients: one partial tear (grade Ⅱ) and one complete tear (grade Ⅲ). Follow-ups ranged from 6 to 18 months. At the last follow-up, wrist function was excellent in one patient (67%), good in eight (44%) and fair in 11 (50%). Conclusion TFCC injuries are common in intra-articular fractures of the distal radius while injuries to scapho-lunate ligament are uncommon.