Ulnar Styloid Fractures Research Articles

Surgical intervention for distal radial fractures with concurrent ulnar styloid fractures may be beneficial for the elderly patients: a retrospective study

BackgroundDistal radius fractures are highly prevalent among older adults. Ulnar styloid fractures frequently accompany distal radius fractures, raising concerns about treatment outcomes due to the risk of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability. This study investigated the necessity of surgical intervention (open reduction internal fixation; ORIF) for distal radius fractures in very old patients with coexisting ulnar styloid fractures.Materials and methodsA retrospective analysis of 96 patients aged ≥ 80 years with AO classification 23-A2 to 23-B3 distal radius fractures with concomitant ulnar styloid fracture between 2019 and 2022 was performed. Patients were excluded if they were aged < 80 years, had a preinjury Barthel index of < 90, or had high-energy multiple trauma. The primary outcome was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months. We compared the DASH score and their trajectories between the ORIF and conservative treatment groups.ResultsORIF group demonstrated significantly better DASH functional scores (25.31 ± 4.71) at the 12-month follow-up compared with the conservative group (34.42 ± 8.03; p < 0.001). Treatment choice was identified as a significant predictor of DASH scores at 12 months, with ORIF significantly improved patient’s wrist function and demonstrated a β coefficient of − 9.11 (95% confidence interval: −11.95 to − 6.27, p < 0.001). The other factors investigated, namely age, lowest T-score, and medical history of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular accidents, cancer, and dementia, did not exhibit a significant association with the 12-month DASH scores in the adjusted model (p > 0.05).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that very old patients with distal radius fracture accompanied by ulnar styloid fractures may benefit from ORIF to achieve optimal long-term functional recovery.

The Impact of Ulnar Styloid Fractures on Patient Functional Outcomes and Complication Rates in Distal Radius Fractures Treated with Volar Locking Plates: A Comparative Study

This study evaluated the effects of ulnar styloid fractures on functional recovery and complication rates in 200 patients with distal radius fractures treated with volar locking plates. Participants were categorized into groups with (USF) and without (NUSF) ulnar styloid fractures, assessing outcomes like grip strength, range of motion, DASH scores, PRWE scores, and complication rates over 12 months. Results indicated that ulnar styloid fractures marginally reduced grip strength and increased DASH and PRWE scores and complication rates, suggesting a minor but significant impact on recovery. No difference in range of motion was observed. These findings advocate for a selective approach to ulnar styloid fracture fixation, emphasizing personalized patient management. Further research is recommended to refine treatment guidelines and explore long-term outcomes, highlighting the importance of considering ulnar styloid fractures in clinical decisions to optimize patient recovery.

Comparative analysis of tension band wiring and hook plate fixation in ulnar styloid fractures: a focus on fracture type.

Various surgical techniques for ulnar styloid fractures (USFs) fixation have recently been developed, the actual clinical outcomes have not been discussed in detail. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of tension band wiring (TBW) and hook plate fixation in the treatment of USFs and to explore effective management strategies for these fractures. We retrospectively reviewed 109 patients with styloid process fractures from March 2016 to July 2020. Among them, patients aged 21-75 years who required surgical intervention for USFs with distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability, with or without accompanying distal radius fracturs (DRFs), were included. The patients were treated with either TBW (group T) or hook plate fixation (group P). The fractures were classified into four types based on their location and complexity. Postoperative assessments were conducted using radiographic analysis to monitor fracture healing. Clinical evaluations, including range of motion (ROM), grip strength, and patient-reported outcomes using the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand scores and the visual analog scale for pain, were performed, at multiple time points up to a year after surgery. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare outcomes across fracture types and treatment methods. Osseous union was achieved in 96% of the patients. Specifically, the time to union in types 3 and 4 fractures was significantly shorter in group P than in group T. Functionally, ROM assessments showed similar flexion-extension in both groups but better pronation-supination in group T. Grip strength and patient-reported outcomes did not show significant differences between the groups. TBW offers slight ROM benefits for type 2 USFs, whereas hook plate fixation provides superior stability for complex types 3 and 4 USFs. Despite the minimal differences in ROM, the enhanced advantages of the hook plate fixation make it the preferred choice for severe fractures, ensuring faster healing.

Ulnar carpal translation following palmar locking plate fixation for distal radius fractures: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundConcomitant injuries to the radiocarpal ligaments may occur during episodes of distal radius fractures, which may not cause acute subluxation or dislocation but can lead to radiocarpal instability and progress over time. This study aimed to analyze the occurrence of ulnar carpal translation (UCT) after open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fractures and evaluate the associated factors of UCT.MethodsThe retrospective study has been done now and includes patients treated between 2010 and 2020 who had undergone reduction and locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures. We assessed radiographs taken immediately after the operation and at 3 months post-operation, enrolling patients with UCT for evaluation. In addition to demographic data, we evaluated radiographic parameters, including fracture pattern, fragment involvement, and ulnar variance. We also assessed the palmar tilt-lunate (PTL) angle to determine associated rotatory palmar subluxation of the lunate (RPSL).ResultsAmong the 1,086 wrists, 53 (4.9%) had UCT within 3 months post-operation. The majority of wrists with UCT exhibited normal to minus ulnar variance (49 wrists; mean: −1.1 mm), and 24 patients (45.3%) had concomitant RPSL. Fracture classification was as follows: 19 type A3 (35.8%), 5 type C1 (9.4%), 11 type C2 (20.8%), and 18 type C3 (34.0%). Radial styloid was involved in 20 wrists (37.7%), palmar rim in 18 wrists (34.0%), dorsal rim in 25 wrists (47.2%), and die-punch fractures in 3 wrists (5.7%). Concomitant ulnar styloid fractures were present in 29 wrists (54.7%).ConclusionThis study highlights the potential for UCT to occur following reduction and fixation of distal radius fractures, particularly in cases with a more severe fracture pattern and combined with ulnar minus variance. The high incidence of concomitant RPSL provides further evidence for the possibility of associated radiocarpal ligament insufficiency after distal radius fracture.

Long term trends in the incidence of distal radius fractures in Sindhudurg, west coast of Maharashtra Retrospective analysis of 1776 distal radius fractures (1989 to 1999), hospital based study

The over all incidences related to age, gender with secular trends and seasonal variation in the catchment area of Sindhudurg, are reported in this study. This study included all the patients of distal radius fractures treated by the author at Government. hospital Kudal, Sindhudurg between 1989 to 1999. A retrospective analysis was done extracting the data from Government hospital OPD registers, indoor case papers, cross-checked with operation theatre, radiology files. Overall 1776 distal radius fractures conferred of which 692(39.0%) were women. The annual incidence was 1.41 for 1989 and 2.58 for 1999 per 10,000 inhabitants. There was an exponential increase in incidence of adolescents of 11 to 20 years [26(22.1%) in 1989 and 56(25.4%) in 1999] and between 51 to 70 years age group [37(31.4%) in 1989 and 82(37.2%) in 1999] in both genders. After 71 years there was gradual decline in incidence in both men and women. Low velocity injuries due to indoor and outdoor falling was the most common mechanism of injury in 1340(75.5%). Associated ulnar styloid fracture was seen in 912(51.3%). Surgical intervention was done in 522(57.2%) with ulnar styloid fracture and in 186(21.5%) with intact ulnar styloid.The annualincidence of distal radius fracture is consistently increasing over a decade time, much more so in adolescents. Men and women between 51 to 70 years had a higher risk of fracture than other groups. Low energy injuries were most predominant.

Headless screw fixation of unstable ulnar styloid base fractures after distal radial fractures fixation

Ulnar styloid fractures occur frequently concomitant with distal radial fractures. Although unstable distal radial fractures are mostly surgically treated, ulnar styloid fractures are often ignored. Unstable fractures at the base of the ulnar styloid may lead to persistent ulnar pain, due to distal radioulnar joint instability or ulnar styloid non-union.We retrospectively analyzed a single-surgeon cohort series of surgically treated distal radial fractures on how these concomitant ulnar styloid fractures were regarded: indications for surgery and surgical technique with headless screw fixation.119 surgically treated distal radial fractures were assessed. 51 (42.8%) of the surgically treated distal radial fractures had a distal ulnar fracture, and more specifically 23 (19.3%) had a base fracture of the ulnar styloid. 9 (7.6%) of the wrists had a base fracture of the ulnar styloid which was considered after distal radial fracture fixation as persistently unstable, during distal radioulnar joint ballottement translation test. This fracture subtype was immediately treated with headless screw fixation, resulting in all cases in bony union, with a mean active pronation of 85°, a mean active supination of 80° and a clinical stable distal radioulnar joint, with minimal ulnar pain after 6 weeks (mean Visual Analogue Scale 1). After at least 12 months, persistent pain did not occur and mean QuickDASH was 2.5.According to this single-surgeon cohort series, headless screw fixation provides a reliable treatment for unstable base fractures of the ulnar styloid after distal radial fixation.

Distal radius fractures: What are the effects of ulnar styloid fracture and face-toface rehabilitation on the functional outcome?

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the accompanying ulnar styloid fracture and 2 different postoperative rehabilitation protocols on the final outcomes following surgical treatment of distal radius fractures. In this retrospective study, 47 patients (11 male, 35 female; mean age=52.6 years, age range=24-85) who underwent plate fixation for distal radius fractures were divided into 4 groups based on the presence of an ulnar styloid fracture and type of rehabilitation. To evaluate clinical outcomes, wrist range of motion (ROM), grip strength, lateral pinch strength, disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) questionnaire scores and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were obtained at the final follow-up. The rehabilitation exercises of the patients in groups 1 and 2 were carried out in the physical therapy room by the hand therapist during the postoperative 2 months. Patients in groups 3 and 4 were supplied with videos of the exercises of each phase and instructed to carry out those exercises at home routinely. Patients who received home rehabilitation programs demonstrated greater grip strength loss. Patients without accompanying ulnar styloid fractures had better DASH and VAS scores. Final wrist ROM and the duration for return to preinjury activity level did not differ among groups. This study has suggested that accompanying ulnar styloid fractures may worsen the functional outcomes after plate fixation of distal radius fractures. Home-based programs may provide patients with adequate overall wrist function with certain drawbacks compared to rehabilitation under direct supervision.

Volar Lunate Dislocation: A Case Report

Introduction: Perilunate dislocations are rare high-energy injuries which may often have the potential to cause lifelong disability of the wrist if not addressed optimally. Hence, early recognition, diagnosis, and intervention are of paramount importance in the restoring function and prevention of morbidity. Lunate dislocations are the fourth and last stage of perilunate dislocations being extremely rare, with volar dislocations representing &lt;3% of perilunate dislocations. Case Report: A 24-year-old man suffered from an alleged history of fall from a bike on an outstretched hand following which he developed complaints of pain and swelling in the right wrist. On examination, the patient has relative sensory loss over the lateral half of the palm with no vascular deficit. An accurate range of motion could not be documented due to severe pain. Standard digital X-rays revealed lunate displaced and angulated volarly with a typical “spilled teacup” appearance along with radial and ulnar styloid fractures. Management: The patient was initially given an attempt of closed reduction which was not successful and was followed with open reduction and internal fixation with both volar and dorsal approach with Kirschner wires. The patient’s wrist was immobilized for 6 weeks with below elbow cast with the removal of k wires at 8 weeks after which wrist ROM exercises were started. Results: The patient was followed up for 6 months and now has a functional range of motion of the wrist with no sensory deficit and is able to continue with his profession as a car mechanic. Conclusion: Mayfield progression Stage 4 perilunate dislocations are uncommon with a poor prognosis if not addressed timely. Hence, these injuries need to be identified early and optimally managed with surgical intervention for a favorable outcome. Keywords: Perilunate dislocation, carpal bones, avascular necrosis of lunate, wrist trauma, carpal instability

Influence of Ulnar Styloid Fracture Types on the Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures

Objective: To analyze the effect of ulnar styloid process fracture types on the treatment of distal radius fracture. Methods: A total of 49 patients with distal radius fractures admitted to the hospital between December 1, 2018 and November 30, 2022 were selected. Among the patients, 26 of them were complicated with type I ulnar styloid fracture (the first group), and 23 patients were complicated with type II ulnar styloid fracture (the second group), and were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using Kirschner wire and tension band. The total effective rate, anatomical indicators such as palm inclination and ulnar deviation, and the range of motion of the wrist joint were compared between the two groups. Results: The total effective rate of the first group was higher than that of the second group (P &lt; 0.05). There was no difference in anatomical indicators between the groups before operation and 3 months after operation (P &gt; 0.05). Before operation, there was no difference in the range of motion of the wrist joint between the groups (P &gt; 0.05). 3 months after operation, the range of motion of the wrist joint in the first group was greater than that in the second group (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The types of ulna styloid fracture can affect the effectiveness of treatment and joint mobility of distal radius fracture.

Delayed union of a pediatric lunate fracture in the United Kingdom: a case report and a review of current concepts of non-scaphoid pediatric carpal fractures.

Pediatric carpal fractures are rare and often difficult to detect. This paper reviews the current literature on pediatric non-scaphoid carpal fractures, with a case report of a lunate fracture associated with a distal radius and ulnar styloid fracture, managed nonoperatively in a 12-year-old boy. There is lack of consensus regarding the management of these fractures due to the low number of reported cases. A frequent lack of long-term follow-up limits our understanding of the outcomes, but good outcomes have been reported for both nonoperative and operative management. This case report brings attention to the current time period for the definition of delayed union in pediatric carpal fractures, and emphasizes the need for prolonged follow-up for the detection of delayed complications leading to functional impairment.

Surgical fixation of distal ulna neck and head fractures.

Distal ulna plate fixation for ulnar neck and head fractures (excluding ulnar styloid fractures) aims to anatomically reduce the distal ulna fracture (DUF) by open reduction and internal fixation, while obtaining astable construct allowing functional rehabilitation without need for cast immobilization. Severe displacement, angulation or translation, as well as unstable or intra-articular fractures. Furthermore, multiple trauma or young patients in need of quick functional rehabilitation. Inability to surgically address concomitant ipsilateral extremity fractures, thus, limiting early active rehabilitation. Stable, nondisplaced fractures. Need for bridging plate or external fixator of distal radiocarpal joint. An ulnar approach, with astraight incision between the extensor and flexor carpi ulnaris. Preservation of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve. Reduction and plate fixation with avoidance of plate impingement in the articular zone. Postoperatively, an elastic bandage is applied for the first 24-48 h. In isolated DUF with stable fixation, apostoperative splint is often unnecessary and should be avoided. For the first fourweeks, only light weightbearing of everyday activities is allowed to protect the osteosynthesis. Thereafter, heavier weightbearing and activities are allowed and can be increased as tolerated. The best available evidence likely shows that for younger patients with aDUF, with or without concomitant distal radius fractures, open reduction and internal fixation can be safely achieved with good functional outcome and acceptable union and complication rates as long as proper technique is ensured.

Influence of ulnar styloid fracture with concurrent extra-articulardistal radius fracture on forearm rotations

Introduction: This study was conducted to evaluate the relation between extra articular distal radius fracture associated with and without ulnar styloid fracture and the rotational movements of wrist and forearm. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was performed on 86 unilateral, extra articular distal radius fracture, treated conservatively. Associated ulnar styloid fracture was present in 42 (48.8%) group Aand 44 (51.2%) with intact ulnar styloid group B. Men were 54 (62.8%) and women 32 (37.2%). Distal radius fracture involving right, dominant side were 56 (65.1%). All patients were treated by one surgeon with close reduction under anaesthesia with plaster immobilisation. Long arm cast was applied with forearm in supination wrist in ulnar volar flexion and after 2 weeks changed to below elbow cast with wrist in neutral rotation. Results: The mean limitation of supination was 7.82 ± 5.19 for group 1 (intact styloid) and 23.82±14.41 for group 2 (fractured styloid). The mean limitation of pronation was 4.72 ± 3.68 for group 1 (intact styloid) and 3.29 ± 2.79 for group 2 (fractured styloid). The difference between the two groups was statistically significant regarding the limitation of supination, but not about the 0 0 0 limitation of pronation. The average pronation deformity was 120 (range 60 to 190 ) in patients with dorsal malunion and 110 0 (range 50 to 210) in volar malunion. The supination deformity averaged at about 80° (range 40° to 140°) in dorsal and 120 0 0 (range 80 to 170 ) in volarly angulated distal radius malunion. Conclusion: The association of extra articular distal radius fracture with fracture ulnar styloid at two year follow up causes restriction of supination and pronation of forearm

Treatment of type II symptomatic ulnar styloid nonunions with reinsertion of the triangular fibrocartilage complex

PurposeThe purpose of this retrospective study was to introduce an alternative technique for the treatment of type II symptomatic ulnar styloid nonunion by the reinsertion of the triangular fibrocartilage complex and the ulnar collateral ligament.MethodsBetween March 2009 and May 2017, 45 patients (34 males and 11 females) suffering from the nonunion of type II ulnar styloid fractures all underwent the subperiosteal resection of the avulsed fragments and the reinsertion of the TFCC and ulnar collateral ligament. Outcome assessments included the ranges of motion of the wrist, grip strength, pain, and Mayo wrist score. The preoperative and postoperative parameters were compared. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.ResultThe mean follow-up period was 21.66 ± 7.93 months (range, 12 to 26 months). At the final follow-up, the mean preoperative flexion and extension were 79.32 ± 4.52° and 74.40 ± 4.36° respectively. The mean preoperative pain score, grip strength, and Mayo wrist score were 32.48 ± 4.00; 23.88 ± 8.38 kg, and 77.72 ± 8.31 respectively. The mean postoperative flexion and extension of the wrist were 80.56 ± 6.32° and 75.43 ± 3.12° respectively. The mean postoperative pain score, grip strength, and Mayo wrist score were 12.41 ± 3.27, 26.31 ± 8.30 kg, and 90.71 ± 7.97 respectively. There were significant differences in pain, grip strength, and Mayo wrist score (P < 0.05), but no significant differences concerning the range of motion of the wrist.ConclusionIn the treatment of the nonunion of type II ulnar styloid fractures, the resection of the avulsed fragments followed by the reinsertion of the TFCC and the ulnar collateral ligament with an anchor was a reliable alternative technique, bringing the satisfactory function of the wrist.

Coronal translation of the forearm, proximal capitate, and ulnar styloid predict radial inclination in distal radius fractures in older female patients.

The aims of this study were to identify means to quantify coronal plane displacement associated with distal radius fractures (DRFs), and to understand their relationship to radial inclination (RI). From posteroanterior digital radiographs of healed DRFs in 398 female patients aged 70 years or older, and 32 unfractured control wrists, the relationships of RI, quantifiably, to four linear measurements made perpendicular to reference distal radial shaft (DRS) and ulnar shaft (DUS) axes were analyzed: 1) DRS to radial aspect of ulnar head (DRS-U); 2) DUS to volar-ulnar corner of distal radius (DUS-R); 3) DRS to proximal capitate (DRS-PC); and 4) DRS to DUS (interaxis distance, IAD); and, qualitatively, to the distal ulnar fracture, and its intersection with the DUS axis. In the study (fracture) and control groups, respectively, the mean values were: RI, 17.2° (SD 7.2°; -7° to 35°) and 25.6° (SD 2.6°; 21° to 30°); DRS-U, 13.5 mm (SD 1.7; 4.9 to 20.8) and 15.3 mm (SD 0.72; 13.8 to 16.3); DUS-R, 13.4 mm (SD 2.1; 4.8 to 18.5) and 12.0 mm (SD 0.99; 9.7 to 13.9); DRS-PC (positive value radial to DRS, negative value ulnar), 0.14 mm (SD 5.4; -10.9 to 22.7) and -6.1 mm (SD 1.6; -10.6 to -2.3); and IAD, 25.3 mm (SD 2.5; 17.6 to 31.1) and 27.1 mm (SD 1.5; 24.5 to 31.0). All means were significantly different between the study and control groups. RI correlated strongly with DRS-PC. Ulnar styloid fracture intersection with the DUS axis, reflective of ulnar translation of both radial and ulnar shafts, was associated with significantly lower RI. After DRF, the relationship of the proximal capitate to the DRS axis in the coronal plane correlates with the final radial inclination. Additionally, ulnar styloid intersection with the DUS axis is associated with even lower radial inclination. DRF reduction should seek to restore the normal coronal relationship of both radial and ulnar shafts to their distal counterparts.

If at first you don't succeed, should you try again? The efficacy of repeated closed reductions of distal radius fractures.

A repeated closed reduction ("re-reduction") of a displaced distal radius fracture is a common procedure performed to obtain satisfactory alignment and avoid surgery when the initial reduction is deemed unsatisfactory. However, the efficacy of re-reduction is unclear. Compared to a single closed reduction, does a re-reduction of a displaced distal radius fracture: (1) improve radiographic alignment at the time of fracture union and, (2) decrease the rate of operative intervention? Retrospective cohort analysis of 99 adults aged 20-99years with extra-articular or minimally displaced intra-articular, dorsally angulated, displaced distal radius fracture with or without an associated ulnar styloid fracture who underwent a re-reduction, compared against 99 adults matched for age and sex who were managed with a single reduction. Exclusion criteria were skeletal immaturity, fracture-dislocation and articular displacement greater than 2mm. Outcome measures included radiographic alignment at fracture union and rate of surgical intervention. At 6-8weeks follow-up, the single reduction group had greater radial height (p = 0.045, CI 0.04to3.57), and less ulnar variance (p < 0.001, CI -3.08 to -1.00) compared to the re-reduction group. Immediately following re-reduction, 49.5% of patients met radiographic non-operative criteria, but by 6-8weeks follow-up, only 17.5% of patients continued to meet these criteria. Patients in the re-reduction group were treated with surgery 34.3% of the time, compared to 14.1% of the time for patients in the single reduction group (p = 0.001). In patients aged under 65years, 49.0% of those who underwent a re-reduction were managed with surgery, compared to 21.0% of those who had a single reduction (p = 0.004). A re-reduction performed to improve radiographic alignment and avoid surgical management in this subset of distal radius fractures had minimal value. Alternative treatment options should be considered before attempting a re-reduction.

Clinical Validation of an Artificial Intelligence Model for Detecting Distal Radius, Ulnar Styloid, and Scaphoid Fractures on Conventional Wrist Radiographs.

This study aimed to assess the feasibility and performance of an artificial intelligence (AI) model for detecting three common wrist fractures: distal radius, ulnar styloid process, and scaphoid. The AI model was trained with a dataset of 4432 images containing both fractured and non-fractured wrist images. In total, 593 subjects were included in the clinical test. Two human experts independently diagnosed and labeled the fracture sites using bounding boxes to build the ground truth. Two novice radiologists also performed the same task, both with and without model assistance. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated for each wrist location. The AUC for detecting distal radius, ulnar styloid, and scaphoid fractures per wrist were 0.903 (95% C.I. 0.887-0.918), 0.925 (95% C.I. 0.911-0.939), and 0.808 (95% C.I. 0.748-0.967), respectively. When assisted by the AI model, the scaphoid fracture AUC of the two novice radiologists significantly increased from 0.75 (95% C.I. 0.66-0.83) to 0.85 (95% C.I. 0.77-0.93) and from 0.71 (95% C.I. 0.62-0.80) to 0.80 (95% C.I. 0.71-0.88), respectively. Overall, the developed AI model was found to be reliable for detecting wrist fractures, particularly for scaphoid fractures, which are commonly missed.

Should ulnar styloid be fixed following fixation of a distal radius fracture?,

IntroductionFracture of the base of the ulnar styloid has shown to have higher incidence of TFCC tears and DRUJ instability leading to nonunion and impaired function. Poorer functional outcomes of the distal radius fracture have been attributed to the untreated associated ulnar styloid fractures while some studies have shown no difference. Thus, the treatment remains controversial. However, it has been shown that fractures at the base of the ulnar styloid have a higher incidence of tears in the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) and instability in the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ), which can lead to nonunion and impaired function. Despite this, there are currently no studies comparing the outcomes of surgically and conservatively treated patients. MethodsA retrospective study was conducted to analyze the outcomes of intra-articular distal radius fractures associated with base of ulnar fracture treated with distal radius LCP fixation. The study included 14 patients who were treated surgically and 49 patients who were treated conservatively, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Radiological parameters such as union and amount of displacement, VAS score for ulnar-sided wrist pain, functional assessment using the modified Mayo score and the quick DASH questionnaire and complications were analyzed. ResultsAt the final follow-up, the mean scores for pain (VAS), functional outcomes (modified Mayo score), disability (QuickDASH score), range of motion, and non-union rate were found to be statistically insignificant (p > 0.05) between the surgically treated and conservatively treated groups. However, patients with non-union had statistically significant higher scores for pain (VAS), greater post-operative displacement of the styloid, poorer functional outcomes, and higher disability (p < 0.05). ConclusionWhile there was no significant difference in ulnar-sided wrist pain and functional outcomes between the surgically treated and conservatively treated groups, the conservatively treated cases had a higher risk of non-union, which can negatively impact functional outcomes. The amount of pre-operative displacement was found to be a key factor in predicting non-union and can be used as a guide for determining the management of this type of fracture.

Management of ulnar styloid fracture with tension band wiring

Abstract Earlier approach for ulnar styloid and tip fractures was nonsurgical management; however, displaced fractures of the ulnar styloid should be treated with internal fixation. In this case report, a case of post road traffic accident fracture of ulnar styloid with distal radioulnar joint disruption was operated with open reduction internal fixation with tension band wiring. Patient gained dorsiflexion of 90º at wrist, and 90º palmar flexion at wrist at 1 year follow-up with union of the bone. Follow-up was done using Mayo (wrist performance score) which was 65% at 6 weeks (satisfactory), and 95% (excellent) at 1 year. We concluded tension band wiring as a superior modality for management of ulnar styloid fractures.

The Role of Wrist Circumference (Regional Obesity Versus Local Swelling) in Conservatively Treated Distal Radius Fractures: A Single Center Experience

Aim: Regional obesity around the wrist due to local excessive fat or local swelling due to edema has not been studied as a risk factor to predict the possibility of reduction loss during conservative treatment of distal radius fractures. We aimed to investigate the impact of wrist circumference on reduction loss risk in conservatively treated distal radius fractures. Material and Methods: Patients with distal radius fractures who were conservatively in our institution between January 2021 and December 2021 are retrospectively reviewed. Patients’ demographics, wrist circumference, radiographic parameters were obtained from hospital registry notes. Wrist circumference was measured with an unstretchable tape positioned on a line passing from lister tubercle of the distal radius and distal ulna. The difference in the wrist circumferences between the injured and uninjured extremities represented local swelling. The association of these factors with reduction loss was evaluated. Results: A total of 73 consecutive patients (19 male, 54 female) with a mean age of 61.1 ± 12.9 were included. There were 18 reduction losses. There was no association with reduction loss between injured and uninjured wrist circumferences (p&amp;gt;0.05). However, local swelling, initial displacement at dorsal angulation and radial inclination, presence of dorsal comminution, and accompanying ulnar styloid fracture were associated with reduction loss (p&amp;lt;0.05). Local swelling had an odd ratio of 6.661 (1.848 – 24.006, p= 0.004). Conclusion: Excessive local swelling is found to be a risk factor to predict reduction loss in conservative treatment of distal radius fractures while regional obesity is not.

Concomitant Ulnar Styloid Fractures in Distal Radius Osteosynthesis Does Not Impact Radiographic Outcomes, Ulnar Sided Symptoms and Patient Outcomes.

Current literature reports varied significance of ulnar styloid fractures (USF) associated with distal radius fractures. Our study assesses the role of ulnar styloid fractures and fragment size in surgically managed distal radius fractures. We reviewed patients who underwent surgical fixation of distal radius fractures between January 2004 to June 2006. Patients were divided into those with (Group 1) and without (Group 0) USFs. Post-operative radiographic parameters, clinical outcomes and overall wrist function were analysed. Outcomes included ulnar-sided wrist pain, extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendinitis, triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) grind test, distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability and pain. Overall wrist function was assessed with range of motion and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score. Our study cohort included 31 males and 23 females, and 38.9% of these patients had concomitant USFs. There was no difference in terms of demographic data and fracture configuration between groups. Radiographic parameters were similar, except for palmar tilt, which was significantly higher in Group 1 (4.6º vs 9.4º, p=0.047). At 24 months, there were no differences in clinical outcomes and overall wrist function. A sub-group analysis showed that mean USF fragment size was larger in patients with a positive TFCC grind test (3.9mm vs 7.3mm, p=0.033). The presence of USFs in surgically managed distal radius fractures does not compromise clinical and functional outcome. Similarly, the size of USFs does not impact clinical and functional outcome but is associated with the presence of a positive TFCC grind test.