Radiological follow up of volar locking plating of distal radius fracture

Abstract

Introduction: Fracture of the distal end radius constitutes one of the most common skeletal injuries treated by an orthopaedic surgeon. This study was aimed to assess the clinical and radiological outcome of the intra-articular fracture distal end radius treated with variable angle mini-fragment volar plate fixation. Methodology: In the prospective study, patients presenting with distal end radius fracture and then operated with mini-fragment volar locking distal radius plating were included. All patients were evaluated by a senior orthopaedic surgeon at 3, 6 and 24 weeks post-operatively, during which patients underwent a physical examination of the wrist and forearm motion and grip strength, followed by radiological evaluation. Range of movement and complications were noted for all patients at each follow up visit.Results: 64% of the patients were below the age of 40 years. Approximately three fourths of all patients were classified as Frykmann distal radius fracture type VIII. The mean radial inclination, length and tilt were maintained throughout the follow up period. The range of dorsiflexion, palmarflexion, supination and pronation improved significantly at each follow up. 8% had superficial skin infection, 4% had serous discharge and loss of reduction each and 84% did not report any complications.Conclusions: Primary volar mini-fragment variable angle plate fixation of freshly displaced distal radius fracture provides complete union, with immediate mobilization, better functional outcomes, minimizes chances of delayed/malunion.