Closed reduction percutaneous pinning versus open reduction internal fixation in the treatment of intraarticular distal radius fractures: mean four years results

Abstract

BACKGROUND This study was performed to compare the results of closed reduction percutaneous pinning (CRPP) versus open reduction internal fixation with a volar locking plate (ORIF) in the treatment of intraarticular distal radius fractures (IDRF) average four-year follow-up. METHODS In this study, 43 patients had unilateral intraarticular distal radius fractures (type B and C) treated with CRPP (n=19; 11 males and eight females) and ORIF (n=24; 14 males and 10 females) were retrospectively evaluated. The mean follow-up was 50.3 months (12-74) at the CRPP group and 45.2 months (40-65) at the ORIF group. The mean age was 50.8 years (29-73) in the CRPP group and 51.5 (19-75) in the ORIF group. The patients were evaluated functionally and radiologically at the last follow-up. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference between the groups concerning follow-up, age, and gender. However, there was no statistical difference concerning grip power and the range of motion. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (Q-DASH) was better in the ORIF group. Voler tilt and radial height measurements were statistically significantly better in the ORIF group. Degenerative arthritis was 63% in the CRPP group and 41% in the ORIF group, and there was no statistically significant difference. CONCLUSION ORIF with a volar locking plate has better functional and radiological results than CRPP in IDRF patients' average four-year follow-up.