Plastering the thumb

Abstract

With the increased use of dorsal distal radial plate and screw fixation for distal radial fractures, there is a need for improved accuracy in imaging the wrist joint. The concern with plate fixation is a screw penetrating the joint space. Posterio-anterior and lateral radiographs are currently performed after internal plate fixation; if screw penetration of the joint space is suspected, the patient is referred for a CT scan. To avoid further radiation exposure and possibly even unnecessary surgery, the original radiograph must be as accurate as possible.The articular surface of the radius at the wrist joint has a palmar tilt ranging from 3–20%;