Functional and radiological outcome of volar plate fixation in intra articular distal radius fractures

Abstract

Introduction: Fractures of lower end radius are most common fractures of the upper extremity encountered in practice and constitute 17% of all fractures and 75% of all forearm fractures. These injuries account for approximately one sixth of all fractures seen and treated. In the words of Dr. Abraham Colles “this fracture takes place about an inch and a half above the carpal extremity of the radius and there is a 17% lifetime probability for distal radius fractures”. The majority of these injuries are 'closed', with no evidence of breach of the surrounding skin. Materials and Methods: A prospective study on cases of the fractures of the distal end of the radius, attending the Orthopaedics outdoor and the emergency services of Vinayaka Mission's Kirupananda Variyar Medical College and Hospital, Salem. The fractures were classified according to Modified AO Classification. 25 cases were followed at regular intervals and final assessment was done at 3 months (photographic plate 2). This study was conducted with detailed clinical and radiological analysis after surgical management of fractures of distal end of radius.