Average Disabilities Of The Arm, Shoulder And Hand Research Articles

FREE VASCULARIZED FIBULA GRAFTING AS MANAGEMENT FOR LARGE SKELETAL DEFECTS IN HUMERAL OSTEOMYELITIS IN NORTHERN IRELAND

IntroductionThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the radiological and clinical outcomes in Northern Ireland of free vascularised fibular bone grafting for the treatment of humeral bone loss secondary to osteomyelitis. Upper limb skeletal bone loss due to osteomyelitis is a devastating and challenging complication to manage for both surgeon and patient. Patients can be left with life altering disability and functional impairment. This limb threatening complication raises the question of salvage versus amputation and the associated risk and benefits of each. Free vascularised fibula grafting is a recognised treatment option for large skeletal defects in long bones but is not without significant risk. The benefit of vascularised over non-vascularised fibula grafts include preservation of blood supply lending itself to improved remodeling and osteointegration.Materials & MethodsSixteen patients in Northern Ireland had free vascularised fibula grafting. Inclusion criteria included grafting to humeral defects secondary to osteomyelitis. Six patients were included in this study. Patients were contacted to complete DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) questionnaires as our primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures included radiological evaluation of osteointegration and associated operative complications. Complications were assessed via review of Electronic Care Record outpatient and in-patient documents.ResultsSix patients in Northern Ireland have been treated with free fibula grafting for humeral defects secondary to osteomyelitis. Regarding aetiology of osteomyelitis, five patients had sustained humeral fractures which were initially managed with open reduction internal fixation and complicated by infected non-union. These cases required removal of metalwork, segmental resection and placement of cement spacer with prolonged antibiotic therapy before return to theatre for vascularised fibula grafting. One patient developed native humeral osteomyelitis, the exact cause of which was unclear. Four patients were contactable for outcome score completion. The average DASH score was 45.5. (range 11.1 – 70.4). The median score was 50.2. With regard to post-operative complications, four of the six patients required return to theatre. Reasons were flap congestion, failure of metalwork at three months, donor site skin grafting for delayed healing and external fixation of graft fracture following trauma. Three patients experienced donor site morbidity in the form of delayed healing or infection requiring admission for intravenous antibiotics. One patient died due to cerebrovascular accident (CVA) within one month of return to theatre for a graft related complication - radiographic osteointegration was not assessed for this patient. At the time of this study, three of the remaining five patients have achieved graft osteointegration. Two patients are within 6 months of grafting procedure therefore too early to comment on radiographic osteoingreration. Radiographs to date are encouraging.ConclusionsFree vascularised fibula grafting for humeral shaft bone defects is a viable option for limb salvage but carries significant risk of complications. Our study highlights the need for proper informed consent regarding risk for this uncommon complex procedure which should only be undertaken by a multidisciplinary team in a specialist orthoplastic unit. This procedure is performed infrequently and our study has given us more information on risk and clinical outcomes to provide full and informed consent for patients in the future.

The functional and radiological comparison of the surgical treatment results of forearm diaphyseal fractures in adults treated with open reduction internal fixation and intramedullary locking nail

Objectives: The results of two different methods applied in the surgical treatment of forearm fractures in adults were evaluated. Methods: Thirty-nine patients who applied to our clinic between 2016-2018 and were treated surgically were included in the study. Twenty-three patients out of these were treated with plate osteosynthesis (group 1), and 16 patients were treated with intramedullary locking nail (group 2). While 14 of the patients in group 1 were male, 9 were female, and the average age was 39.8 years (range; 19-74 years); and 11 of the patients in group 2 were male, 5 were female, and the average age was 36.6 years (range; 18-68 years). Patients were called for monthly check-ups until fracture union. Then, radiographic evaluation was done at 3, 6 and 12 months. The average follow-up time was 26 months (range;12-36 months) for group 1 and 25 months (range;12-35 months) for group 2. The loss of the line of fracture through radiographic imaging of trabeculations or callus formation in the cortex on the anteroposterior and lateral radiographs, and clinically loss of sensitivity on fracture were considered fracture union. In the last controls, while the elbow was at 90 degrees of flexion, the amount of rotation of both forearms was measured by using the goniometer. In the functional evaluation, the system described by Grace and Eversmann and used to evaluate fracture union and forearm rotation was used. Patient satisfaction was evaluated by using the DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) method. Results: While the union duration in group 1 was 12.3 weeks (range; 8-18 weeks), the union duration in group 2 was 12 weeks (range; 9-16 weeks). There was no statistical difference in terms of union durations (p > 0.05). In Group 1, according to the Grace-Eversmann evaluation, 19 (82.6%) patients had excellent and good results, three (13.1%) patients had acceptable results, and 1 (4.3%) patient had poor results. Forearm pronation of the patient with poor results was less than 60% but his bone union was complete. In group 1, the average DASH score was 15.04 (range; 3-28). In group 2, Grace-Eversmann evaluation showed excellent and good results in 13 (81.3%) patients and acceptable results in 3 (18.7%) patients. Average DASH score was found to be 14.6 (range; 2-34). When Grace-Eversmann criteria and DASH values were compared, no significant difference was found between the two groups (p > 0.05). Vascular nerve injury, tendon injury, radioulnar synostosis, and compartment syndrome were not observed in any patient. Conclusions: The results of the two fixation methods in terms of functional recovery and patient satisfaction were similar in the surgical treatment of forearm double fractures in adults.

Investigating clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in patients with chronic osteomyelitis of humerus

BackgroundChronic osteomyelitis in the humerus, which has complex neuroanatomy and a good soft tissue envelope, represents a unique clinical challenge. However, there are relatively few related studies in the literature. This article retrospectively reviewed a large case series with the aims of sharing our management experiences and further determining factors associated with the outcomes.MethodsTwenty-eight consecutive adult patients with a mean age of 36 years were identified by reviewing the osteomyelitis database of our clinic centre. The database was used to prospectively identify all osteomyelitis cases between 2013 and 2017, and all data then was retrospectively analysed.ResultsThe mean follow-up period was 35 months (range 24–60). The aetiology was trauma in 43% (12) of the patients and haematogenous in 57% (16) of the patients, and Staphylococcus aureus was a solitary agent in 50% (14) of the patients. Host-type (Cierny’s classification) was IA in 8, IIIB in 11 and IVB in 9 patients. All patients required debridement followed by the placement of a temporary antibiotic-impregnated cement spacer (rod). Seventeen patients received a cement-coated plate for internal fixation after debridement, and 13 patients needed bone grafts when the spacer was staged removed. All patients attained an infection-free bone healing state at the final follow-up. The final average DASH (disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand) score was 18.14 ± 5.39, while 6 patients (two developed traumatic olecranarthritis, four developed radial nerve injuries) showed the lowest levels of limb function (p = 0.000) and were unemployed. Three patients (type I; significant difference between type I versus type III and type IV patients, p < 0.05) experienced recurrence after debridement and underwent a second revision, which was not related to the bone graft (p = 0.226) or plate fixation (p = 0.050).ConclusionsHumeral chronic osteomyelitis can be treated with general surgery and anti-infective therapy; medullary (type I) infection presents a challenge, and the antibiotic-coated cement plate provides favourable fixation without increasing recurrence of infections. Clinicians should be aware of potential iatrogenic nerve injuries when treating these patients with complicated cases, and an experienced surgeon may improve the outcome.

Bloqueo óseo metafisario de radio y fijación estable en seudoartrosis de polo proximal de escafoides sin necrosis. [Radial metaphyseal core decompression and stable fixation of proximal pole scaphoid nonunion without osteonecrosis

Objetivo: Reportar la tasa de consolidación y los resultados de una serie de 22 pacientes con seudoartrosis del polo proximal del escafoides tratados con un bloqueo óseo metafisario asociado a un tornillo autocompresivo anterógrado.Materiales y Métodos: Serie prospectiva de pacientes con seudoartrosis del polo proximal del escafoides en quienes se constató un sangrado intraoperatorio en ambos fragmentos. Se excluyó a los pacientes con desplazamiento, cambios degenerativos, fragmentación del polo proximal, cavitación del foco, pérdida de altura, necrosis y aquellos con inestabilidad carpiana. Se tomaron radiografías e imágenes por tomografía computarizada para evaluar su consolidación; se registraron la movilidad y la fuerza de puño, y los pacientes completaron una escala analógica visual para dolor en reposo, dolor en actividad, estado subjetivo funcional y el cuestionario DASH.Resultados: La serie incluyó 18 pacientes. Diecisiete presentaron consolidación. El seguimiento promedio fue de 22 meses y la movilidad final promedio fue: flexión 87%, extensión 84%, desviación radial 78%, desviación cubital 84% y fuerza de puño 85%. El puntaje promedio de la escala analógica visual fue 0 para dolor en reposo; 2, para dolor en actividad y 9 para función, en tanto que el puntaje DASH promedio fue de 8.Conclusiones: Con esta técnica confiable y sencilla, obtuvimos una tasa de consolidación del 95% y un muy buen resultado funcional. El bloqueo óseo metafisario asociado a un tornillo anterógrado constituye una alternativa válida y eficaz para tratar la seudoartrosis del polo proximal del escafoides, vital en pacientes cuidadosamente seleccionados. ABSTRACTObjective: To report the consolidation rate and the outcomes of a series of 22 patientswith proximal pole scaphoid nonunion treated with a metaphyseal core decompressionand an anterograde self-compressing screw.Methods: We present a prospective series of patients with proximal pole scaphoidnonunion and confirmation of intraoperative bleeding in both fragments. Patientspresenting with displacement, degenerative changes, proximal pole fragmentation,cavitation at the fracture site, reduced bone length, and necrosis, as well as those withcarpal instability, were excluded. X-rays and computed tomography scans wereperformed to assess consolidation; range of motion and grip strength were recorded, andpatients completed a visual analogue scale for pain at rest, pain during activity, andsubjective functional status, as well as a DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder andHand) questionnaire.Results: Eighteen patients were included. Union was observed in 17 patients. Theaverage follow-up time was 22 months, and the average final range of motion was asfollows: 87% for flexion, 84% for extension, 78% for radial deviation, 84% for ulnardeviation, and 85% for grip strength. The average score on the visual analogue scalewas 0 for pain at rest, 2 for pain during activity, and 9 for function, while the averageDASH score was 8.Conclusions: Using this simple and reliable technique, we obtained a 95% union andvery good functional results. Metaphyseal core decompression with an antegrade screwis a valid and effective alternative for treatment of proximal pole scaphoid nonunion incarefully selected patients.

Early active motion protocol following open reduction internal fixation of the scaphoid: A pilot study

Scaphoid fractures are common injuries which traditionally have been treated with long periods of immobilization even after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). The purpose of this pilot investigation was two-fold: 1) describe a precise postoperative Early Active Motion (EAM) rehabilitation protocol following ORIF of scaphoid fractures and 2) record the outcomes of the EAM protocol. Eight consecutive patients having undergone ORIF of the scaphoid were enrolled in the EAM and followed for a minimum of 1 year. At 12 weeks, Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Mayo Wrist score, and range of motion values were obtained. At 1 year, a telephone survey was conducted and several data points were obtained including DASH and Mayo Wrist score, number of push-ups, satisfaction with surgery and ability to remain on active duty. All 8 patients were male, on active duty, with an average age of 26 years. Two patients used tobacco products and none had major health problems. All patients completed the EAM protocol and obtained CT; all CT exams demonstrated healing at 8 weeks. At 12 weeks postoperatively, the average DASH score was 8.8±16 (range: 0–47.5), Mayo wrist score was 88±10 (range: 75–100) and range of motion nearly symmetrical. At a mean final follow-up of 15.4 months postoperatively, the average DASH score was 1.1±1.7 (Range: 0–4.5), Mayo wrist score was 97.5±4 (range 90–100), average number of push-ups was 57 (40–70) at the prior Army Physical Fitness Test. All patients were satisfied with surgery and all remained on active duty at 1 year. There were no reported complications. The EAM protocol following scaphoid fracture ORIF is safe and effective. The EAM can reliably return patients back to high demand activity earlier than a traditional protocol.

Percutaneous, Transtrapezial Fixation without Bone Graft Leads to Consolidation in Selected Cases of Delayed Union of the Scaphoid Waist.

Purpose We evaluated clinical and radiographic outcome of percutaneous transtrapezial fixation of the scaphoid delayed union or nonunion using a headless bone screw without bone grafting. Methods Sixteen patients with delayed union or nonunion of the scaphoid were included in this retrospective study between 2006 and 2011. All patients had a delayed presentation of scaphoid fracture, and none of them was treated conservatively elsewhere. Patients with bone graft, sclerotic bone debridement, or displacement of the fragment at the nonunion site were excluded. A percutaneous transtrapezial fixation technique was used in all cases. Patients were reviewed until clinical and radiographic union was observed. At the final follow-up, DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) and PRWHE (Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation) outcome scores were completed. Results Radiographic union was obtained in 15 out of 16 patients (94%) at an average follow-up of 36 months (range: 12-98 months). No complications from the percutaneous technique were noted. The average DASH score was 6 (range: 0-39) and the average PRWHE score was 10 (range: 0-56). No statistical significant difference in range of motion and grip strength was found between the operated side and the contralateral side. Conclusion Percutaneous transtrapezial screw fixation for delayed or nonunion of selected scaphoid fractures without bone grafting is promising. At a mean of 4 months, 94% union was obtained with good functional results when there was no sclerosis, minimal osteolysis, and no displacement at the scaphoid nonunion site. Type of Study Therapeutic study. Level of Evidence IV.

Outcome of delayed primary internal fixation of distal radius fractures: A comparative study

Introduction and aimOperative fixation of distal radius fractures using fixed-angle devices has become increasingly common. Although good to excellent results have been reported in acute fractures, little is currently known regarding the fixation of healing displaced distal radius fractures that were presented late. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of internal fixation of distal radius fractures presented late (>21 days) as compared with an acute-care control group. MethodsForty patients operated on for displaced distal radius fractures, presenting more than 21 days after injury (delayed treatment (DT) group), were compared with 75 age-matched controls with acute fracture repair (≤21 days). The same surgical approach was used in both groups, together with dorsal soft-tissue and brachioradialis release. No osteotomy was required. Direct and indirect reduction aids were used. A fixed-angle device (DVR; Biomet Inc., Warsaw, IN, USA) was used in both groups. Mean follow-up was 3.4 years. Quick DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) and Short Form 12 scores were used to evaluate outcome, as well as radiographic analysis for Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen(AO)/Orthopaedic Trauma Association(OTA) classification, volar tilt, radial inclination and radial length. ResultsAverage age was 53 years in both groups and male to female (M/F) ratio was similar in the study groups. Mean time to surgery was 30 days in the DT group and 8 days in the control group. There were significantly more type C (91.5% vs. 67.5%) fractures in the control group. The average quick DASH score was 27.1 in the DT group as compared with 6.3 in the control group (p<0.03); however, when controlling for two outlier cases with complications (hardware irritation and a sensory neuropathy) there was no significant difference. Volar tilt, radial inclination and length were similar in both groups and were within normal anatomical values. ConclusionsDelayed primary operative fixation of displaced unstable distal radial fractures is a viable option for cases that were presented late, with predictable, favourable results. Neither extensile approaches nor formal osteotomies are required.

Distal radius fractures with diaphyseal involvement:fixation with fixed angle volar plate

Background: Fractures of the distal radius involving the metaphyseal and diaphyseal junction are commonly the result of high energy trauma, and represent a challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. Fractures are often comminuted: optimal reduction, restoration of normal radial length, and a correct radioulnar relationship may be difficult to achieve. Only a few reports in the literature have studied these lesions, and the best treatment approach is still the source of debate. Aims & Objective: To evaluate the outcome of fractures of the distal radius with metaphyseal and diaphyseal involvement treated with fixed angle volar plates. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one patients with fracture of the radius involving the diaphyseal, metaphyseal and epiphyseal parts were treated with fixed angle plate fixation through an extended volar Henry’s approach. Circle wire loops, screws and intrafocal wire fixations were associated in 12 cases. Coexisting ulnar fractures were fixed with plates or K-wires in 8 cases. All patients were prospectively followed using radiographs, physical examination, and DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) scores. Results: All fractures except one, which needed a secondary bone graft to achieve consolidation, united by an average of 90 days. One case developed a radioulnar synostosis. Radiographs showed optimal reduction in 17 of 21 cases, with restoration of radial length in all cases and a neutral average ulnar variance. Non-anatomical reduction was associated with the worst results (P = 0.0006). Flexion and extension averaged 62.8 degree and 73.8 degree and pronation and supination 85.2degree and 80.2degree respectively. The average DASH scores were 30 points at 3 months, 14 points at 6 months, and 6.7 points at the time of final follow-up (at an average of 11 months). According to the Mayo wrist rating system, 14 patients showed excellent results, 5 showed good results, and 2 showed fair results. Conclusion: Fixed angle volar plates were demonstrated to be a safe and efficient treatment in these challenging fractures.

Midterm outcome after rotator cuff reconstruction

Rotator cuff tear is a common degenerative shoulder disorder that often requires surgical treatment. However, the correlation between the size of the tear and the functional results is somewhat controversial, which generates inconsistency among orthopaedic surgeons about the indications for and methods of rotator cuff reconstruction. The aim of the authors was to evaluate the midterm functional outcome after rotator cuff reconstruction and the possible connection between the results and the surgical technique or the postoperative ultrasound examination. In addition, recently published corresponding studies are also reviewed by the authors. Twenty-seven patients with full thickness rotator cuff tear were enrolled into the study who were treated either by arthroscopic (14 patients) or by open repair (13 patients) technique. Functional results were assessed using clinical tests. Ultrasound examination was also performed. The average postoperative Constant Score was 73, the average DASH (Disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score) was 14. The Constant scores averaged 80 for the arthroscopic and 70 for the open group. Ultrasound examination showed partial or full thickness retear of the cuff in 40% of the cases. More than 70% of the patients had excellent or good results two years after the reconstruction. The change in the acromiohumeral distance or partial retear failed to affect the results significantly, but full thickness tear had an effect on them.

Distal radius fractures with diaphyseal involvement: fixation with fixed angle volar plate

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of fractures of the distal radius with metaphyseal and diaphyseal involvement treated with fixed angle volar plates.Materials and methodsTwenty-one patients with fracture of the radius involving the diaphyseal, metaphyseal and epiphyseal parts were treated with fixed angle plate fixation through an extended volar Henry’s approach. Circle wire loops, screws and intrafocal wire fixations were associated in 12 cases. Coexisting ulnar fractures were fixed with plates or K-wires in 8 cases. All patients were prospectively followed using radiographs, physical examination, and DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) scores.ResultsAll fractures except one, which needed a secondary bone graft to achieve consolidation, united by an average of 90 days. One case developed a radioulnar synostosis. Radiographs showed optimal reduction in 17 of 21 cases, with restoration of radial length in all cases and a neutral average ulnar variance. Nonanatomical reduction was associated with the worst results (P = 0.0006). Flexion and extension averaged 62.8° and 73.8°, and pronation and supination 85.2° and 80.2°, respectively. The average DASH scores were 30 points at 3 months, 14 points at 6 months, and 6.7 points at the time of final follow-up (at an average of 11 months). According to the Mayo wrist rating system, 14 patients showed excellent results, 5 showed good results, and 2 showed fair results.ConclusionFixed angle volar plates were demonstrated to be a safe and efficient treatment in these challenging fractures.

Use of a Distraction Plate for Distal Radial Fractures with Metaphyseal and Diaphyseal Comminution

Distal radial fractures with extensive comminution involving the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction present a major treatment dilemma. Of particular difficulty are those fractures involving the articular surface. One approach is to apply a dorsal 3.5-mm plate extra-articularly from the radius to the third metacarpal, stabilizing the diaphysis and maintaining distraction across the radiocarpal joint. Twenty-two patients treated with a distraction plate for a comminuted distal radial fracture were included in the study. With use of three limited incisions, a 3.5-mm ASIF plate was applied in distraction dorsally from the radial diaphysis, bypassing the comminuted segment, to the long-finger metacarpal, where it was fixed distally. The articular surface was anatomically reduced and was secured with Kirschner wires or screws. Eleven of the twenty-two fractures were treated with bone-grafting. The plate was removed after fracture consolidation (at an average of 124 days), and wrist motion was initiated. All patients were followed prospectively with use of radiographs, physical examination, and DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) scores. All fractures united by an average of 110 days. Radiographs showed an average palmar tilt of 4.6 degrees and an average ulnar variance of neutral (0 degrees), whereas loss of radial length averaged 2 mm. Flexion and extension averaged 57 degrees and 65 degrees, respectively, and pronation and supination averaged 77 degrees and 76 degrees, respectively. The average DASH scores were 34 points at six months, 15 points at one year, and 11.5 points at the time of final follow-up (at an average of 24.8 months). According to the Gartland-Werley rating system, fourteen patients had an excellent result, six had a good result, and two had a fair result. Grip strength and the range of motion of the wrist at one year correlated inversely with the proximal extent of fracture comminution into the diaphysis. The duration of plate immobilization did not correlate with the range of motion of the wrist or with the DASH score at one year. The use of a distraction plate combined with reduction of the articular surface and bone-grafting when needed can be an effective technique for treatment of fractures of the distal end of the radius with extensive metaphyseal and diaphyseal comminution. A functional range of motion with minimal disability can be achieved despite a prolonged period of fixation with a distraction plate across the wrist joint.

Use of a Distraction Plate for Distal Radial Fractures with Metaphyseal and Diaphyseal Comminution

BACKGROUND: Distal radial fractures with extensive comminution involving the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction present a major treatment dilemma. Of particular difficulty are those fractures involving the articular surface. One approach is to apply a dorsal 3.5-mm plate extra-articularly from the radius to the third metacarpal, stabilizing the diaphysis and maintaining distraction across the radiocarpal joint. METHODS: Twenty-two patients treated with a distraction plate for a comminuted distal radial fracture were included in the study. With use of three limited incisions, a 3.5-mm ASIF plate was applied in distraction dorsally from the radial diaphysis, bypassing the comminuted segment, to the long-finger metacarpal, where it was fixed distally. The articular surface was anatomically reduced and was secured with Kirschner wires or screws. Eleven of the twenty-two fractures were treated with bone-grafting. The plate was removed after fracture consolidation (at an average of 124 days), and wrist motion was initiated. All patients were followed prospectively with use of radiographs, physical examination, and DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) scores. RESULTS: All fractures united by an average of 110 days. Radiographs showed an average palmar tilt of 4.6° and an average ulnar variance of neutral (0°), whereas loss of radial length averaged 2 mm. Flexion and extension averaged 57° and 65°, respectively, and pronation and supination averaged 77° and 76°, respectively. The average DASH scores were 34 points at six months, 15 points at one year, and 11.5 points at the time of final follow-up (at an average of 24.8 months). According to the Gartland-Werley rating system, fourteen patients had an excellent result, six had a good result, and two had a fair result. Grip strength and the range of motion of the wrist at one year correlated inversely with the proximal extent of fracture comminution into the diaphysis. The duration of plate immobilization did not correlate with the range of motion of the wrist or with the DASH score at one year. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a distraction plate combined with reduction of the articular surface and bone-grafting when needed can be an effective technique for treatment of fractures of the distal end of the radius with extensive metaphyseal and diaphyseal comminution. A functional range of motion with minimal disability can be achieved despite a prolonged period of fixation with a distraction plate across the wrist joint.

Use of a Distraction Plate for Distal Radial Fractures with Metaphyseal and Diaphyseal Comminution

Distal radial fractures with extensive comminution involving the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction present a major treatment dilemma. Of particular difficulty are those fractures involving the articular surface. One approach is to apply a dorsal 3.5-mm plate extra-articularly from the radius to the third metacarpal, stabilizing the diaphysis and maintaining distraction across the radiocarpal joint. Twenty-two patients treated with a distraction plate for a comminuted distal radial fracture were included in the study. With use of three limited incisions, a 3.5-mm ASIF plate was applied in distraction dorsally from the radial diaphysis, bypassing the comminuted segment, to the long-finger metacarpal, where it was fixed distally. The articular surface was anatomically reduced and was secured with Kirschner wires or screws. Eleven of the twenty-two fractures were treated with bone-grafting. The plate was removed after fracture consolidation (at an average of 124 days), and wrist motion was initiated. All patients were followed prospectively with use of radiographs, physical examination, and DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) scores. All fractures united by an average of 110 days. Radiographs showed an average palmar tilt of 4.6 degrees and an average ulnar variance of neutral (0 degrees), whereas loss of radial length averaged 2 mm. Flexion and extension averaged 57 degrees and 65 degrees, respectively, and pronation and supination averaged 77 degrees and 76 degrees , respectively. The average DASH scores were 34 points at six months, 15 points at one year, and 11.5 points at the time of final follow-up (at an average of 24.8 months). According to the Gartland-Werley rating system, fourteen patients had an excellent result, six had a good result, and two had a fair result. Grip strength and the range of motion of the wrist at one year correlated inversely with the proximal extent of fracture comminution into the diaphysis. The duration of plate immobilization did not correlate with the range of motion of the wrist or with the DASH score at one year. The use of a distraction plate combined with reduction of the articular surface and bone-grafting when needed can be an effective technique for treatment of fractures of the distal end of the radius with extensive metaphyseal and diaphyseal comminution. A functional range of motion with minimal disability can be achieved despite a prolonged period of fixation with a distraction plate across the wrist joint.