Radiological and Clinical Outcome of Distal Radial Fractures Managed by Variable Angle 2.4 mm Titanium Volar Plate

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate radiological and clinical outcome in fractures of the distal radius treated with internal fixation by applying variable angle 2.4 mm volar locking plate. Study design: Prospective interventional study. Place and duration of study: Hand and Upper Limb Surgery (HULS), Lahore, Pakistan between January 2014 and December 2015. Methodology: Forty two patients (34 males, 08 females) with different types of fractures of distal radius were treated. Open reduction and Internal fixation was performed by applying 2.4 mm titanium variable angle volar locking plate. Anatomical restoration was evaluated by good-quality postero-anterior and lateral radiographs obtained preoperatively, immediately postoperatively and 09 months of follow up to evaluate Radial Height (RH), Radial Inclination (RI) and Volar Tilt (VT). Data was analyzed by One way repeated measure ANOVA test. Results: There was perfect anatomical restitution in AO type A and B fractures that retained till 09 months follow up. In type C fractures, there was significant postoperative improvement but slight loss in radiological parameters by 09 months that was insignificant with P-value less than 0.01. There was credible improvement in wrist movements and grip. Conclusion: The rigid characteristics of variable angle volar plate provide the best anatomical restoration and fixation of distal radius fractures and maintain stability to promote early postoperative wrist motion.