Volar Locking Plate Research Articles

Cost-Effectiveness of Volar Locking Plate Compared with Augmented External Fixation for Displaced Intra-Articular Wrist Fractures.

The purpose of the present study was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of treating displaced, intra-articular distal radial fractures with volar locking plate fixation compared with augmented external fixation. A cost-utility analysis was conducted alongside a randomized, clinical trial comparing 2 surgical interventions for intra-articular distal radial fractures. One hundred and sixty-six patients were allocated to either volar locking plate fixation (84 patients) or external fixation (82 patients) and were followed for 2 years. Health-related quality of life was assessed with the EuroQol-5 Dimensions and was used to calculate patients' quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Resource use was identified prospectively at the patient level at all follow-up intervals. Costs were estimated with use of both a health-care perspective and a societal perspective. Results were expressed in incremental cost-effectiveness ratios, and uncertainty was assessed with use of bootstrapping methods. The average QALY value was equivalent between the groups (1.70463 for the volar locking plate group and 1.70726 for the external fixation group, yielding a nonsignificant difference of -0.00263 QALY). Health-care costs were equal between the groups, with a nonsignificant difference of &OV0556;52 (p = 0.8) in favor of external fixation. However, the external fixation group had a higher loss of productivity due to absence from work (5.5 weeks in the volar locking plate group compared with 9.2 weeks for the external fixation group; p = 0.02). Consequently, the societal costs were higher for the external fixation group compared with the volar locking plate group (&OV0556;18,037 compared with &OV0556;12,567, representing a difference of &OV0556;5,470; p = 0.04) in favor of the volar locking plate group. Uncertainty analyses showed that there is indifference regarding which method to recommend from a health-care perspective, with volar locking plate treatment and external fixation having a 47% and 53% likelihood of being cost-effective, respectively. From the societal perspective, volar locking plate treatment had a 90% likelihood of being cost-effective. External fixation was less cost-effective than volar locking plate treatment for distal radial fractures from a societal perspective, primarily because patients managed with external fixation had a longer absence from work. Economic and Decision Analysis Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Volar Locking Plate Fixation for Distal Radius Fractures by Intraoperative Computed Tomographic–Guided Navigation

PurposeUnstable distal radius intra-articular fractures require restoration of alignment. Exact fixation of intra-articular fragments is ideal. Here, we employed intraoperative computed tomography (CT) navigation to insert screws accurately in the intra-articular dorsal fragments during treatment with a volar locking plate for distal radius intra-articular fractures. The main purposes of this study were to evaluate the accuracy of this procedure and the postoperative stability of the articular fragments through CT findings, as well as to assess clinical outcomes.MethodsThis study included 26 patients with distal radius fractures, who were treated with a volar locking plate using intraoperative CT navigation with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Mean patient age was 63 years and mean follow-up was 16 months. We examined the position of the inserted distal screws and articular displacement on preoperative, intraoperative, and post–bone union CT images. The 3 distal ulnar screw positions that influence the stability of the dorsoulnar articular fragment were evaluated. The Mayo wrist score and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score were also clinically evaluated.ResultsComputed tomography evaluation revealed that the distal locking screws were appropriately inserted at the subchondral position, with sufficient length to stabilize the dorsal fragments, and reduction and stability of the articular fragment were acceptable. At the final follow-up, mean Mayo wrist score was 90.8 and mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 9.6.ConclusionsIntraoperative CT navigation was successfully used for volar locking plate fixation of intra-articular distal radius fractures. Computed tomography evaluation revealed that the screws were precisely inserted for articular fragments and bone union was achieved, maintaining good intra-articular alignment. The findings demonstrate the accuracy of volar locking plate fixation assisted by intraoperative CT navigation and the good clinical outcomes of this procedure.Type of study/level of evidenceTherapeutic IV.

Vascularized Ulnar Transposition and Radioulnoscapholunate Fusion With Volar Locking Plate in a Dorsal Position Following Resection of Giant Cell Tumor of the Distal Radius.

Giant cell tumor of the distal radius is a rare, locally destructive, and frequently recurrent tumor. We present a case of Campanacci Grade III giant cell tumor of the distal radius with pathologic fracture and cortical destruction which was treated with neoadjuvant denosumab. This facilitated en-bloc resection of the entire distal radius, including the articular surface, while minimizing tumor contamination. Reconstruction was accomplished using a vascularized ulnar transposition flap to facilitate radioulnoscapholunate fusion, which was fixated using a long-stem contralateral variable angle locking volar distal radius plate in a dorsal position. This case illustrates multidisciplinary management of a challenging reconstructive problem and demonstrates a novel strategy for fixation which repurposes familiar and readily available hardware to provide optimal osteosynthesis.

Analysis of Three-Dimensional Anatomical Variance and Fit of the Distal Radius to Current Volar Locking Plate Designs

PurposeDistal radius fractures are the most common upper-extremity fracture and are increasingly being treated surgically with precontoured volar locking plates. It is not currently known whether existing implant designs are anatomically accurate and whether this has clinical implications. The objective of this study was to determine whether anatomic alignment of the distal radius corresponds accurately to modern volar locking plate designs, including any sex-linked differences in morphology of the distal radius. It was hypothesized that the 2 plates examined would show differences in watershed line (WSL) overlap and that female specimens would have a larger overlap compared with males owing to a decrease in plate-WSL border distances. MethodsWe used 3-dimensional models of 20 cadaver arms (10 female: mean age, 88.7 ± 4.6 years [range, 82–97 years]; and 10 male: mean age, 86 ± 3.6 years [range, 81–91 years]) to create 3-dimensional computed tomography models of the distal radius. Virtual models of 2 common volar plates were created and were used to place the plate virtually onto the distal radii. Outcome measures included the volar cortical angle of the bone and plate, the definition of the WSL subsequently followed by quantitative distance and overlap measures, and percent contact between the plate and the distal radius. ResultsBoth sexes showed an decrease (approximately 7°) in average volar cortical angle measure from medial to lateral columns that was statistically significantly smaller on the lateral column (males: 38°; females: 29°) compared with the medial column (males: 45°; females: 36°). Watershed line overlap ranged from 0% to 34.8% with statistically significant differences between sexes. Average border distance for females was 2.7 mm, compared with 3.8 mm for males. Maximum percent contact of 22.0% was observed at a 0.3-mm threshold. ConclusionsDistal radius fractures are common in elderly female patients, yet clinically available plates have important differences in WSL overlap between sexes, and with minimal contact. Female specimens had more WSL overlap than did males. This indicates the need for volar locking plates to be redesigned to factor in anatomical features of individual patients with a particular focus on sex differences. Clinical relevanceNew plate designs should focus on providing smaller head sizes that are more accurately tailored to the natural contours of the volar distal radius. It is recommended that future studies incorporate expertise from multiple surgeons to diversify and further understand plate placement strategies.

Management of Distal Radius Fractures: Comparison of Three Methods.

IntroductionDistal radius fractures are the most common type of all extremity fractures. It is generally accepted that fractures with more than 2 mm step-off in the radiocarpal joint and greater than 10 degrees dorsal tilt should be treated surgically. However, the ideal technique for surgical management is still a point of debate. We performed cross-sectional data analysis to compare the results of three treatments methods - volar locking plate (VLP), external fixation (EF), Kirschner wire (K-wire) - in patients with distal radius fractures, and compared the clinical, functional, and radiological resultsMaterials and methodsForty-four patients with distal radius fractures who underwent fixation with VLP, K-wire or EF between 2011 and 2013 were included in the study. All fractures were classified according to the Müller’s Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) and Frykman's classifications. Routine radiographs were taken at the postoperative three weeks, six weeks, and three months. Radial inclination, volar tilt, radial length and ulnar variance were assessed on the follow-up visits and additionally at the follow -up for the study. The patient-based Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score system and the physician-based MAYO scale were used to evaluate functional outcomes. Radiological and functional outcomes between three surgical modalities were compared and statistically analyzed.ResultsThe average age at the time of surgery was 52 years (range = 35-69 years). Of a total of 44 patients, 28 were operated with VLP, 11 were with K-wire and five with EF. Satisfactory reduction was achieved in all fractures, and all of the fractures healed. DASH and MAYO scores were similar in all groups. Regarding radiographic parameters, there was no significant difference in radial inclination, volar tilt, radial length and ulnar variance between the treatment modality groups. When evaluated based on fracture geometry, the DASH score was significantly higher in the patients with AO23A type fracture compared to the patients with AO23B and AO23C type fractures. As for MAYO score, all AO23 groups had similar outcomes.ConclusionsSurgical treatment options VLP, EF, and K-wire provide adequate fixation, satisfactory radiological, and functional results for the management of distal radius fractures of various severities. The optimal treatment approach depends on individual features, and the choice for an internal fixation or closed reduction method for the restoration of wrist function should be evaluated thoroughly by the operating surgeon considering the patient-related variations.

Evaluation of Patient-Reported and Clinician-Reported Outcomes of Volar Locking Plate Fixation for Distal Radius Fractures.

Background: Postoperative evaluation of wrist joint trauma is divided into patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and clinician-reported outcomes (CROs). We investigated the association of the Q-DASH score as the postoperative PROs and the Mayo wrist score as the postoperative CROs with clinical evaluation in patients with distal radius fractures surgically treated using a volar locking plate (VLP). Moreover, whether PROs and CROs are correlated to the clinical evaluation was investigated. Methods: The subjects were 109 patients surgically treated for distal radius fractures at our hospital between June 2013 and May 2017. Forty-one patients were male, 68 patients were female, and the mean age was 61.4 (19-86) years old. The fracture type was AO classification A type in 30 patients (A2: 25, A3: 5), B type in 5 (B2: 1, B3: 4), and C type in 74 (C1: 50, C2: 11, C3: 13). All patients were surgically treated using VLP. The range of motion of the wrist, grip strength the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Q-DASH score (PROs), and the Mayo wrist score (CROs) were investigated. Each evaluation was compared as the clinical outcome between at 3 months after surgery and the final follow-up. In addition, the correlations of the postoperative PROs and CROs with the clinical evaluation were analyzed. Results: Each evaluation was significantly improved compared with that at 3 months after surgery. There was a significant correlation between PROs and CROs at 3 months after surgery and the final follow-up. However, the range of motion of the wrists was not significantly correlated with PROs or CROs at 3 months after surgery or at the final follow-up. Conclusions: On evaluation after surgery for distal radius fractures, PROs and CROs improved early after surgery (3 months after surgery) before the final follow-up, and an inverse correlation was present between these scores.

A Plate Lines Up the Bone Better, But That Doesn't Seem to Matter Much: Commentary on an article by Andrew R. Stephens, BS, et al.: "Volar Locked Plating Versus Closed Reduction and Casting for Acute, Displaced Distal Radial Fractures in the Elderly. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials".

A Plate Lines Up the Bone Better, But That Doesn't Seem to Matter Much: Commentary on an article by Andrew R. Stephens, BS, et al.: "Volar Locked Plating Versus Closed Reduction and Casting for Acute, Displaced Distal Radial Fractures in the Elderly. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials".

Changes in Nerve Conduction Studies After Distal Radius Fracture Fixation Using a Volar Approach and Locked Plate

PurposeTo determine whether there are changes in nerve conduction studies (NCS) of the median nerve after distal radius fracture (DRF) and to determine how operative fixation through a volar approach with a locking plate contributes to nerve conduction changes. We hypothesized that a considerable percentage of patients would have electrodiagnostic evidence of median neuropathy at the wrist after fracture, but fixation with a volar locked plate would not worsen the electrodiagnostic findings.MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study of 14 neurologically asymptomatic patients who underwent surgical treatment of an isolated DRF using a volar plate. All patients underwent surgery within 2 weeks of injury. On the day of surgery and at the 6-week follow-up, patients were clinically examined, Quick–Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire was completed, and patients underwent NCS using a handheld device with the unaffected limb, which was used as a comparison. Preoperative and postoperative nerve function were compared with the unaffected limb as a baseline.ResultsPatients without symptoms after DRF had a 28% incidence of prolonged latencies compared with reference values for the device used. Distal sensory latencies of the median nerve were 3.64 ± 0.32 ms in the unaffected arm, 3.76 ± 0.70 ms before surgery, and 3.81 ± 0.52 ms after surgery. Distal motor latencies of the median nerve were 3.91 ± 0.59, 3.60 ± 0.68, and 3.88 ± 0.36 ms in respective arms and time points. Quick–Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores improved from 77 before surgery to 46 at 6 weeks.ConclusionsAsymptomatic patients may satisfy nerve conduction criteria for median neuropathy at the wrist after DRF; however, open reduction and treatment with a volar locked plate has no significant effect on NCS findings.Type of study/level of evidencePrognostic II.

Early Mobilization After Volar Locking Plate Osteosynthesis of Distal Radial Fractures in Older Patients—A Randomized Controlled Trial

To investigate if early mobilization after open reduction internal fixation of distal radius fractures improved the functional outcome. We hypothesized that early mobilization would lead to improved patient-reported outcome. Second, we aimed to assess whether early mobilization increased the risk of postoperative implant loosening or breakage. All included patients were treated with a volar locking plate. After surgery, patients were randomized to either early mobilization (E-MOB) with a removable orthosis (wrist lacer) and daily wrist exercises or to late mobilization (L-MOB) with a standard dorsal plaster cast for 2 weeks and, after that, a removable orthosis and exercises. We measured all patients at 4 weeks and at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. At each postoperative visit, we measured range of motion and grip strength and patients filled out the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Radiographic implant loosening or breakage was assessed 14 days after surgery. A total of 47 patients were allocated to E-MOB and 48 to L-MOB. The DASH score improved substantially throughout the follow-up period with no significant differences between the 2 groups at any time point. Implant loosening and fracture redisplacement was observed in 1 patient in the E-MOB group. Range of motion and grip strength were similar between the 2 groups at all time points. Early mobilization after surgical treatment of distal radius fractures does not lead to improved patient-reported outcome. Therapeutic I.

Complications associated with volar locking plate fixation for distal radius fractures in 1955 cases: A multicentre retrospective study.

Since volar locking plates (VLPs) have the benefits of more stable fixation and fewer complications, VLP osteosynthesis is now the preferred osteosynthesis method in the operative management of distal radius fractures (DRF). Along with the increases in operative management of VLP, the character and frequency of complications have changed. Thus, this multicentre study aimed to identify the characteristics of patients with DRFs who were treated with VLP fixation, describe the complication types and rates related to the procedure, and compare the results with those found in the literature. This retrospective multicentre study was conducted between January 2008 and December 2017. In total, data from 2225 patients over 17years old who underwent VLP fixation for DRF were screened. Patients with closed reduction and pinning, external fixation, dorsal plate fixation, and screw-only fixation were excluded. Finally, 1955 wrists from 1921 patients (86.3%) were included. The following types of complications were investigated: (1) tendon injury, (2) nerve-related, (3) fixation- and instrument-related, (4) osteosynthesis-related, (5) infection, and (6) others. The mean age of the patients was 60.3 ± 14.6years with 587 males (30.6%). Distal ulnar fractures were found in 940 wrists (48.1%). The mean interval between fracture and surgery was 6.2days, while the mean operative time was 68.3 ±30.3 minutes. The following complications were found: (1) nine (0.46%) and 12 (0.61%) cases of flexor pollicis longus and complete extensor pollicis longus tears, respectively; (2) nine cases (0.46%) of palmar sensory median nerve branch damage, 15 cases (0.77%) of complex regional pain syndrome, and 36 cases (1.84%) of carpal tunnel syndrome; (3) five cases (0.26%) of fracture displacement even after plate fixation, six cases (0.31%) of screw breakage, 26 cases (1.33%) of radiocarpal joint screw penetration, and 511 cases (26.14%) of implant removal; (4) five cases (0.26%) of delayed union and three cases (0.15%) of non-union; (5) 83 (4.25%) and two (0.1%) cases of superficial and deep infection, respectively; and (6) two cases (0.1%) of compartment syndrome and three cases (0.15%) of radial artery damage. After 10years of experience performing VLP fixation for DRFs in a multicentre setting, the results regarding complication types and rates support its use as a reasonable treatment option with low rates of complication.

Volar, Splitting, and Collapsed Type of Die-Punch Fracture Treated by Volar Locking Plate (VLP): A Retrospective Study.

ObjectiveTo compare the results of different types of die‐punch fractures treated by volar locking plate (VLP).MethodsBetween January 2013 and February 2018, a total of 71 patients with die‐punch fracture of distal radius were treated by VLP and their medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Of them, 18 were classified as volar type, 24 as splitting type, and 28 as collapsed type of fracture, based on the preoperative radiographs and CT scans. The minimum follow‐up period was 12 months. Radiological parameters, wrist function, range of motion (ROM), and complications were evaluated and compared. Pearson chi‐square test was used to assess the difference of gender distribution, injury side, dominance, mechanism, type and classification of fracture, and postoperative complications, when necessary (P < 0.05), followed by pairwise comparisons using partitions of chi‐square test. Two‐tailed P value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. For pairwise comparisons, adjustment of statistical level as P < 0.017 (0.05/3) was used. SPSS 21.0 was used to perform all the analyses.ResultsThe mean follow‐up time was 14.5 months, and at the mean of postoperative 8 weeks all patients obtained bony union, without delayed or non‐union. The grip strength was 26.6 ± 7.9 kg for patients in volar fracture group, 27.0 ± 9.4 kg in splitting group, and 26.2 ± 9.4 kg in collapsed group, without significant difference (P = 0.628).The disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) (9.2 ± 10.0 for volar group, 8.8 ± 7.9 for splitting group, and 10.6 ± 8.7 for collapsed group) or Gartland–Werley score (5.1 ± 2.8 for volar group, 4.8 ± 3.2 for splitting group, and 6.4 ± 2.7 for collapsed group) either did not differ among the three groups (all P > 0.05). There was a poorer ROM in the group of collapsed fractures, but the difference was non‐significant for any parameter (P > 0.05). As for radiographic parameters, we did not find any significant difference for volar tilt, radial inclination, radial height, and ulnar variance (all P > 0.05), except for articular step‐off (P < 0.001). Pairwise comparisons showed a significantly greater step‐off (1.2 mm vs 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm) and higher rate of total complications in group of collapsed fracture (39.3%), compared to either volar (10.5%) or splitting type (12.5%).ConclusionsThe collapsed type of die‐punch fracture posed a greater articular step‐off and a higher rate of complications, especially secondary wrist osteoarthritis, which deserved more attention in clinical treatment.

Volar Locked Plating Versus Closed Reduction and Casting for Acute, Displaced Distal Radial Fractures in the Elderly: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

It remains unclear whether volar locked plating (VLP) yields a better functional outcome than closed reduction and casting (CRC) for elderly patients with an acute, displaced distal radial fracture. Our purpose was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing outcomes of VLP and CRC for elderly patients (age, ≥60 years). Multiple databases, including MEDLINE, were searched for randomized controlled trials evaluating outcomes following distal radial fracture treatment. Raw data were obtained for studies that included patients of all ages, and the elderly subgroup was included for analysis. The primary outcome was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at ≥1 year of follow-up. Secondary outcomes included the 3-month DASH score, range of motion, final radiographic alignment, and complications. Effect sizes for the comparison of each outcome between groups were pooled across studies using random-effects models with the inverse variance weighting method. Changes in DASH score were compared with a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) estimate of 10 to assess clinical relevance. Of 2,152 screened articles, 6 were included. Demographics were similar for the 274 VLP and 287 CRC patients. DASH scores were significantly better following VLP than CRC at the time of final follow-up (12 to 24 months postoperatively; score difference, -5.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], -8.7 to -3.1) and at 3 months (-8.9; 95% CI, -13.0 to -4.8). VLP yielded significantly better palmar tilt, radial inclination, and supination, with no differences in ulnar variance, flexion-extension, pronation, or total complication rates. Functional outcome was significantly better following VLP than CRC 3 months into the treatment of acute, displaced distal radial fractures in an elderly population and up to 2 years after injury. However, the observed differences in the final DASH score did not exceed published estimates of the MCID, suggesting that clinical outcomes are similar for both treatment options. Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Est-il possible de placer des vis de verrouillage dans les parties ulnaires des plaques verrouillées palmaire à distance du tendon du long fléchisseur du pouce ? Étude cadavérique

BackgroundThe volar locking plate (VLP) system provides stable fixation and is widely used for distal radius fractures. Studies have shown that irritation of the implant prominence is a risk factor for flexor tendon rupture, especially of the flexor pollicis longus (FPL). Contact between VLPs and flexor tendons should be avoided. We aimed to investigate the ulnar facet locking screw locations of various VLPs placed without FPL tendon contact in cadaver wrists. HypothesisWe hypothesized that ulnar facet locking screws would be in the vicinity of the subchondral bone when the plate is placed in the most distal position without FPL tendon contact. Materials and methodsThe study assessed two variable-angles and four fixed locking plates. We placed each plate in six different cadavers, resulting in 36 different plate-cadaver combinations. Plates were placed in the most distal position without FPL tendon contact. We drilled the most ulnar hole (hole A) and the second ulnar hole (hole B) of the distal row. All drilling procedures were performed using a specific jig for each fixed locking plate. For variable-angle locking plates, we drilled with a fixed jig for each plate. We obtained lateral radiographs when the drill penetrated the dorsal cortex and measured the distance between the drill and the articular surface. ResultsWith regard to hole A, the mean distances between the drill and the center of the articular surface were 2.6–5.2mm for the four fixed locking plates and 4.9–5.6mm for the two variable-angle locking plates. With regard to hole B, the mean distances between the drill and the center of the articular surface were 3.8–5.9mm for the four fixed locking plates and 5.5–5.9mm for the two variable-angle locking plates. DiscussionWhen clinicians place a VLP without FPL tendon contact, the distance between the ulnar facet screws and the center of the articular surface is over 3mm in most cases. Surgeons should select variable-angle drilling for strong articular support when using variable-angle locking plates. Level of evidenceIII, diagnostic Level.

Incidence of Complications following Volar Locking Plate Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures: An Analysis of 647 Cases.

This study assessed the risk and factors of complications after volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures. A single-institution retrospective review of patients undergoing volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures between May of 2000 and May of 2015 was undertaken. Demographic data, major complications, minor complications, and radiographic parameters were evaluated. Six hundred forty-seven distal radius fractures managed with volar plate fixation in 636 patients were reviewed. Mean follow-up was 9.1 months. Mean age was 56.5 years. Mean body mass index was 28.0, and 14.6 percent of patients had a body mass index greater than 35. Fractures were classified as Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen class 23-C (67.2 percent), 23-A (26.6 percent), and 23-B (6.2 percent). The incidence of major and minor complications was 13.8 percent and 17.5 percent, respectively. The most common complication was transient paresthesia (9.7 percent). The incidence of tendon rupture or irritation was 0.5 percent or 2.5 percent, respectively. Hardware removal for painful/symptomatic hardware occurred in 6.2 percent at an average of 427.8 days after surgery. Major complications and minor complications were increased 2.2- and 1.9-fold, respectively, in patients with a body mass index greater than 35. Major complications were also increased 3.19 times in patients with residual intraarticular step-off. Hardware removal was 3.3 times more likely in patients with Soong grade 2 plate prominence and 2.9 times more likely in patients with a history of diabetes mellitus. Volar plate osteosynthesis of distal radius fractures is associated with an overall low complication rate. Patient factors, including diabetes mellitus and obesity, and intraoperative factors, including intraarticular fracture alignment and plate prominence, were associated with a higher rate of complications or revision surgery. Risk, III.

Functional and radiological outcome of distal radius fractures stabilized by volar-locking plate with a minimum follow-up of 1year.

Distal radius fractures (DRF) are the most common fractures of the upper extremities and incidence is expected to continue rising as life expectancy increases. Palmar locking plate stabilizing has since become the standard treatment for dorsally displaced DRF. Main aim of this study was to investigate correlation between radiological and clinical outcome in patients stabilized by palmar locking plate with a minimum follow-up of one year. A total of 524 patients with DRF, stabilized using palmar angular stable locking plate fixation were included in the study. Of these, 117 patients had to be excluded and another 177 were not accessible. The study group thus compromised 230 patients who returned for the follow-up investigation and were followed-up clinically and radiologically with a mean follow-up interval of 20months. Outcome was evaluated using pain, range of motion (ROM) and grip strength parameters. In addition, self-assessment by patients was registered on the QuickDASH, PRWE and Mayo Score. The immediate postoperative and final checkup radiographs were scrutinized for alignment and intra-articular step-off. Bivariant correlation analysis showed a significant correlation between ulnar variance and QuickDASH (r = 0.18, p = 0.01), grip strength (r = -0.18, p = 0.04) and Mayo Score (r = -0.23, p = 0.001). No significant differences could be found between an unacceptable (> 2mm) and acceptable (< 2mm) ulnar variance in respect of pain, ROM, grip strength and patient-reported outcome measurements. Age, gender, additional fracture to the ulnar styloid, or type of postoperative immobilization showed no significant or clinical important impact on the final patient-reported outcome. No significant differences in incidence of complications, ROM or loss of reduction could be found in any patients over or under 65years of age. Stabilization of DRF by palmar angular stable locking plate is a safe form of treatment and results in a good clinical and radiological outcome with low complication rate. Ulnar variance showed a significant correlation to grip strength, QuickDASH and Mayo Score, but an unacceptable ulnar variance (> 2mm) was not associated with a worse clinical important outcome. Age (< 65/> 65years), gender and type of immobilization had no impact on the complication rate or in the final functional or radiological outcome.

Surgical outcomes of elderly patients aged more than 80\u2009years with distal radius fracture: comparison of external fixation and locking plate

BackgroundTo compare the outcomes after surgical intervention, including external fixation (EF) with the optional addition of K-pins or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with a volar locking plate (VLP), in patients with distal radius fracture aged > 80 years.MethodsWe reviewed 69 patients with a distal radius fracture aged > 80 years who treated under surgical intervention from 2011 to 2017 retrospectively. Their demographic data and complications were recorded. Preoperative, postoperative, and last follow-up plain films were analyzed. The functional outcomes of wrist range of motion were also evaluated.Results41 patients were treated with EF with the optional addition of K-pins, while 28 patients were treated with ORIF with a VLP. The radiological parameters, including ulnar variance and radial inclination, at the last follow-up were significantly more acceptable in the VLP group (p = 0.01, p = 0.03, respectively). The forearm supination was significantly better in patients treated with VLP (p = 0.002). The overall incidence of complications was lower in the VLP group (p = 0.003).ConclusionVLP provides better radiological outcomes, wrist supination and lower complication rates than EF. Therefore, although EF is still widely used because of its acceptable results and easy application, we recommend VLP as a suitable treatment option for distal radius fracture in the geriatric population aged > 80 years.

Comparison of two surgical methods in the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures: Volar locking plate and K-wire augmented bridging external fixator.

In this study, we aimed to compare the radiological, clinical and functional results of volar radius locking plate, and K-wire augmented bridging external fixator (BEF) treatments that applied in intra-articular distal radius fractures. Between May 2016 and January 2019, 162 patients who met the inclusion criteria of 23-C2 and 23-C3 according to the AO/OTA classification who operated in our clinic were evaluated retrospectively. 78 patients (37 males, 41 females, mean age 49.92) were fixated with K wire augmented BEF and 84 patients (41 males, 43 females, mean age 46.81) were fixated with volar locking plate (VLP). Demographic (age, gender, type of trauma, and follow-up time), radiological (radial inclination, radial height, volar tilt, and fracture healing time), and clinical and functional (range of motion [ROM], grip strength, Quick Dash, Green O'Brien and Mayo scores) data of the patient groups were recorded and compared statistically. There was no significant difference between the patient groups in terms of functional scoring systems. Radiologically, radial inclination, and radial length were significantly better in the volar plate group. In terms of joint ROM, flexion, extension, pronation, and supination movements were significantly better in the VLP group. Sudek atrophy incidence and loss of grip strength were higher in BEF group. Mean time of union was significantly shorter in the BEF group. Successful results can be obtained in both treatment methods. However, VLP treatment provides better joint ROM and lower complication rates compared to BEF treatment.

How Many Screws Are Needed for Reliable Stability of Extra-articular Nonosteoporotic Distal Radius Fractures Fixed with Volar Locking Plates?

BackgroundWe hypothesized that volar locking pate fixation using a minimum number of screws—four in the distal row and two in the shaft of the plate—will provide sufficient stability for unstable extra-articular fractures of the distal radius. We aimed to compare the biomechanical properties of different numbers and locations of screws in volar locking plate fixation and describe the clinical and radiological outcome of plate fixation using a minimum number of screws for distal radius fractures.MethodsWe divided 48 artificial radius fracture bones into four groups (group A–D) based on the number and location of screws used for fixation with volar locking plates. The artificial bone models were subjected to axial compression and volar bending load with a force of 250 N and 80 N, respectively, for 1,000 cycles at a frequency of 1 Hz. We also retrospectively reviewed 42 patients with unstable, extra-articular, distal radius fractures who were treated with volar locking plate fixation using a minimum number of screws.ResultsGroup A (seven distal screws and three proximal screws) had the highest mean stiffness: 303.7 N/mm under axial compression and 61.1 N/mm under volar bending. Compared with group A, group D (four screws in the distal part and two screws in the shaft) showed significantly lower stiffness; therefore, group D was considered inferior in terms of stability. However, in the fatigue test, neither deformation of the metal plate nor detachment or breakage of the metal screws was observed in all groups. In the clinical study, all fractures united without displacement and satisfactory clinical outcome was obtained.ConclusionsIn the dorsally comminuted, extra-articular, nonosteoporotic distal radius fractures, the minimum number of screws—four in the distal row and two in the shaft—in volar locking plate fixation can provide sufficient stability. Further biomechanical studies involving osteoporotic bone will be necessary to confirm the results because volar plate fixation is most commonly used in patients with osteoporosis.

Volar Locking Plate Fixations for Displaced Distal Radius Fractures: An Evaluation of Functional and Radiographic Outcomes

Objectives: In this study, our aim was to evaluate the functional, radiological and clinical results of the patients which treated with a volar anatomical locking plate due to distal radius fractures retrospectively. Methods: Patients operated with distal radius fracture between 2014-2016 were screened retrospectively. Fractures were classified according to the AO classification. Radiological values for radial height, radial inclination, radial volar tilt and ulnar variance were measured according to the radiological key points described by Medoff. The Stewart scoring form was used to evaluate the radiological results. Flexion-extension, pronation-supination was measured using with a goniometer. Grip strength was measured using a hand dynamometer. Clinical results were evaluated according to the Mayo wrist system. Results: The average age of 60 patients included in this study was 45 and average follow-up period was 13 month. Mean grip strength value was 18.33, the contralateral side was 25.33. The distribution of the Stewart radiological assessment score were 16 (27%) patients excellent, 36 (60%) good, and 8 (13%) moderate results. When evaluated clinically with the Mayo wrist score, the results were excellent in 20 (33%) patients, good in 35 (58%) patients, and moderate in 5 (9%) patients. Statistically significant differences were found in all radiological parameters. (p < 0.05) Conclusion: Surgery using a volar anatomical locking plate is an effective treatment method for distal radius fractures. Joint range of motion can be achieved early with correct fixation of the plate and by beginning joint movement as soon as possible.

Ulnar facet locking screw locations of volar locking plates placed without flexor pollicis longus tendon contact: A cadaver study

BackgroundThe volar locking plate (VLP) system provides stable fixation and is widely used for distal radius fractures. Studies have shown that irritation of the implant prominence is a risk factor for flexor tendon rupture, especially of the flexor pollicis longus (FPL). Contact between VLPs and flexor tendons should be avoided. We aimed to investigate the ulnar facet locking screw locations of various VLPs placed without FPL tendon contact in cadaver wrists. HypothesisWe hypothesized that ulnar facet locking screws would be in the vicinity of the subchondral bone when the plate is placed in the most distal position without FPL tendon contact. Materials and methodsThe study assessed two variable-angles and four fixed locking plates. We placed each plate in six different cadavers, resulting in 36 different plate-cadaver combinations. Plates were placed in the most distal position without FPL tendon contact. We drilled the most ulnar hole (hole A) and the second ulnar hole (hole B) of the distal row. All drilling procedures were performed using a specific jig for each fixed locking plate. For variable-angle locking plates, we drilled with a fixed jig for each plate. We obtained lateral radiographs when the drill penetrated the dorsal cortex and measured the distance between the drill and the articular surface. ResultsWith regard to hole A, the mean distances between the drill and the center of the articular surface were 2.6–5.2mm for the four fixed locking plates and 4.9–5.6mm for the two variable-angle locking plates. With regard to hole B, the mean distances between the drill and the center of the articular surface were 3.8–5.9mm for the four fixed locking plates and 5.5–5.9mm for the two variable-angle locking plates. DiscussionWhen clinicians place a VLP without FPL tendon contact, the distance between the ulnar facet screws and the center of the articular surface is over 3mm in most cases. Surgeons should select variable-angle drilling for strong articular support when using variable-angle locking plates. Level of evidenceIII, diagnostic Level.