Volar locking plate in intra-articular fracture lower end radius

Abstract

Introduction: Fractures of the distal radius recently have become the focus of an intense resurgence in interest regarding optimal management. The overly optimistic attitude that a favourable outcome will eventuate, despite residual deformity must be tempered by the realization that the common factor predisposing to a suboptimal recovery is malunion. Moreover for the most frequently occurring intra-articular fractures, an increasing consensus exists that preservation of distal radial articular contours, that in many cases can be achieved only be open treatment, is an absolute prerequisite for successful recovery. Aim: To evaluate the outcome of volar plating using locked plates in intra articular fractures of lower end radius. Materials and Methods: This is prospective all inclusive study for outcomes of intra articular fracture lower end radius using locked plates as a type of implant for open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture fragments. All patients included for this study sustained distal radius fracture grade III to grade VIII according to Frykmann classification. At the final follow up patients were assessed using Gartland and Werley’s Demerit Scoring System6 for the result of plating of intra articular fracture of lower end radius. Results and Discussion: The results of present study were assessed using using Gartland and Werley’s Demerit Scoring System. We observed that 60.47% patients showed excellent result, 34.89% patients showed good and 4.65% patients showed fair results. These results were quite comparable with other studies performed in the past. Conclusion: Based on our study, we conclude that plating in unstable intra articular fracture of distal end radius using locked plates had become an effective tool in the management of difficult injuries. With the development of volar fixed angle locking plates, this technique is advantageous in intra articular lower end radius fractures.