Is volar locking plate superior to external fixation for distal radius fractures? A comprehensive meta-analysis

Objective

The aim of this meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) and retrospective cohort studies (CS) regarding the use of volar locking plate (VLP) and external fixation (EF) in distal radius fractures was to determine whether there was any evidence that one treatment was superior to the other.

Do fixed-angle T-plates offer advantages for distal radius fractures in elderly patients?

In the treatment of distal radius fractures, plate osteosynthesis using fixed-angle T-plates has become more common. Higher stability often allows functional aftertreatment in metaphyseal and articular fractures. So far it remains unclear whether these advantages also apply to elderly patients who commonly suffer from osteoporosis and reduced cooperativeness. Therefore, we evaluated the radiological loss of correction during fracture consolidation in patients aged more than 70 years. Fixed-angle plates were used in 44 patients (mean age: 79.4 years) while conventional T-plates were used in 30 patients (mean age: 78.2 years). Postoperative immobilization for 6 weeks by plaster or external fixator was performed in all patients. The loss of correction was significantly lower for fixed-angle plates (4.6% vs 40.0%). As a result of this study, we have gradually reduced immobilization in favor of early functional treatment. In a recent study fixed-angle plates so far seemed to permit stable fracture fixation. Our results underline the advantage of stable fixation in displaced fractures of the distal radius even in osteoporotic bone of elderly patients.     

Palmar multidirectional fixed-angle plate fixation in distal radius fractures: do intraarticular fractures have a worse outcome than extraarticular fractures?

Introduction

The results and complications using a palmar plate system with the possibility of multidirectional fixed-angle screw fixation (Aptus^® Radius 2.5 mm by Medartis^®) for the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures were evaluated in a single cohort study including 62 patients.

Patients

Patients with extra- and intraarticular fractures were evaluated separately. The mean follow-up was 14.7 months. Active wrist motion averaged 60.1° extension, 52.0° flexion, 86.3° pronation, and 84.6° supination. Grip strength averaged 89% of the contralateral wrist.

Results

There was no loss of the initial reduction with bony union in all cases. The mean DASH-score was 12.6 points. Postoperative complications included two extensor pollicis longus tendon ruptures, two median nerve compression syndromes, one complex regional pain syndrome, and one postoperative haematoma. In our series the results of the intraarticular fracture group were similar to the extraarticular fracture group. The complication rate, however, was substantially higher in the intraarticular fracture group.

Conclusion

We conclude that palmar plating with multidirectional fixed-angle screw insertion is an effective and useful treatment option, especially for complex intraarticular distal radius fractures.     

Can external fixation maintain reduction after distal radius fractures?

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of external fixation and percutaneous pinning in maintaining distal radius fracture reduction over a 6-month period and to identify factors that might predict loss of fracture reduction. METHODS: Seventy cases had complete radiographic evaluation before surgery; at surgery; and at 6-week, 3-month, and 6-month follow-up. Radiographic parameters measured included volar tilt, dorsal displacement, radial inclination, radial height, radial shift, and ulnar variance. RESULTS: Dorsal tilt averaged 17.5 degrees from neutral before surgery; this value was corrected to 0.9 degree at surgery, but then progressed to 4.2 degrees by the 6-month follow-up. At 6-month follow-up, 49% of cases had lost more than 5 degrees of initially reduced volar tilt. However, none of these patients went from an acceptable initial reduction to an unacceptable reduction at 6 months. Initial deformity, patient age, use of bone graft, and duration of external fixation were not predictors of loss of reduction. CONCLUSION: Loss of reduction of volar tilt was seen for a period of up to 6 months after fixation, despite the use of pinning to hold the reduction. No specific predictor of loss of reduction was noted, although there was a trend toward loss of reduction in younger patients.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of un-united fractures of the distal radius: does the size of the distal fragment affect the result?

Two cohort populations consisting of 13 patients with an un-united fracture of the distal radius in whom the distal fragment had more than 5 mm of subchondral bone supporting the articular surface distal to the site of the nonunion and ten patients with an un-united fracture of the distal radius with a smaller distal fragment were compared. There were no preoperative differences with respect to age, gender, interval between injury and index procedure, preoperative amount of radius tilt, ulnar inclination and ulnar variance, or the preoperative function. Independent of the size of the distal fragment in all patients the distal radius was restored to gain bony union and realignment with preservation of some wrist motion. The length of the follow-up period averaged 30 months for the small fragment group compared with 22 months for the large fragment group. Bony union was achieved in 22 patients. One patient out of the large fragment group failed to heal the fracture and had wrist fusion. At the follow-up examination there were no significant differences in the radiological and clinical outcome between the two groups. No differences were seen on total range of motion of forearm supination and pronation with an average of 135 degrees in the large fragment group and 145 degrees in the small fragment group. Wrist motion revealed no significant differences in the flexion-extension arc, averaging 90 degrees in the large fragment group and 83 degrees in the small fragment group. Total range of motion of radial and ulnar deviation of the wrist was similar, averaging 39 degrees in the large fragment group and 43 degrees in the small fragment group. Grip strength averaged 59% compared with the opposite limb for the large fragment group and 67% for the small fragment group. We believe that the results of reconstruction of un-united fractures of the distal end of the radius for patients in whom the distal fragment had less than 5 mm of subchondral bone supporting the articular surface distal to the site of the nonunion are comparable to the results for patients with a larger distal fragment. Therefore, we believe that surgeons should try to preserve even a small amount of wrist motion and reserve wrist fusion as a final resort.     

Do angle stable implants provide advantages? Treatment of distal radius fractures with the locking compression plate (LCP)

Can distal radius fractures be held in place with palmar locking compression plates (LCPs) and heal completely without an additional bone transplant? From 1 March 2001 to 1 September 2002, 40 patients with distal radius fractures (CCF: 2× A2, 13× A3, 2× C1, 22× C2 and 1× C3 fractures) were treated with locking compression small fragment titanium plates. In 37 cases, the plates were inserted in a palmar direction without an additional corticocancellous bone graft. All patients received a follow-up check-up after an average of 12.1 months. On this occasion, the range of motion, grip strength and radiological result were measured and rated according to the Gartland and DASH score. All fractures healed completely. In one case, a re-osteosynthesis was carried out after the plate had bent because full load was placed on it prematurely. An average of 5.1 points was achieved in the Gartland and 12.6 points in the DASH score. An extremely good result was achieved in 19 cases, a good result in 15 and a satisfactory result in 6. At the follow-up examination, the average range of motion was 52°-0°-50° for stretching and bending in the wrist, 20°-0°-27° for radial and ulnar deviation and 82°-0°-78° for pronation and supination. On the radiographs, the average radiocarpal angle in the anteroposterior projection was 22° with a palmar tilt of an average of 5°. Radius fractures with metaphyseal, one-sided comminuted zones can be treated with locking compression plates with good results using a palmar approach without a cancellous bone graft.     

A revolution in the management of fractures of the distal radius?

The recent development of locking-plate technology has led to a potential revolution in the management of fractures of the distal radius. This review examines the evidence for pursuing anatomical restoration of the distal radius and the possible advantages and pitfalls of using volar locking plates to achieve this goal. The available evidence for adopting volar locking plates is presented and a number of important and, as yet unanswered, questions are highlighted.     

External fixation in comminuted,displaced intra-articular fractures of the distal radius: is it sufficient?

Introduction: External fixation has been extensively used to treat the intra-articular fractures of the distal radius and it has several distinct advantages over conventional POP cast and plate fixation. However, the limitation of external fixation to achieve articular congruity in the comminuted intra-articular fractures of the distal radius has been documented in the literature. This could be because external fixation alone does not expand crushed cancellous bone and cannot work without soft tissue hinges. This prospective study was conducted to look at the results of comminuted, displaced intra-articular fractures of the distal radius treated exclusively by external fixation. Materials and methods: A 2-year follow-up of 27 patients with comminuted, displaced intra-articular fractures of distal radius that were treated exclusively by external fixation is presented. The radiological results, functional results and complications were analyzed according to the scoring system given by Jakim et al. Results: Anatomical reduction could not be achieved in 12 patients (44%) and reduction was lost in two patients (7%). Excellent and good results were seen in 59.3%, fair results were seen in 22.2% and poor results were seen in 18.5% of the cases. Outcome scores of patients without articular step were significantly better as compared to the patients with articular step at healing. There was a positive correlation between the restoration of normal anatomy (radiological results) and the functional outcome (r=0.775). Overall nine patients (33%) had complications. Conclusion: We conclude that although the external fixation is reliable in maintaining the reduction in displaced comminuted intra-articular fractures, it is inadequate in restoring articular congruity in many cases. The complications of external fixation are frequent and may be potentially serious in nature.     

Initial shortening and internal fixation in combination with a Sauvé-Kapandji procedure for severely comminuted fractures of the distal radius in elderly patients

We identified 11 women with a mean age of 74 years (65 to 81) who sustained comminuted distal radial and ulnar fractures and were treated by volar plating and slight shortening of the radius combined with a primary Sauvé-Kapandji procedure. At a mean of 46 months (16 to 58), union of distal radial fractures and arthrodesis of the distal radioulnar joint was seen in all patients. The mean shortening of the radius was 12 mm (5 to 18) compared to the contralateral side. Flexion and extension of the wrist was a mean of 54° and 50°, respectively, and the mean pronation and supination of the forearm was 82° and 86°, respectively. The final mean disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score was 26 points. According to the Green and O'Brien rating system, eight patients had an excellent, two a good and one a fair result. The good clinical and radiological results, and the minor complications without the need for further operations related to late ulnar-sided wrist pain, justify this procedure in the elderly patient.     

Is sparing the pronator quadratus muscle possible in volar plating of the distal radius?

We measured the length of the distal radius that can be exposed by mobilizing the distal edge of pronator quadratus (PQ) without detaching its radial attachment. Measurements were made in 20 cadaveric upper limbs from the distal margin of the radius in line with the scaphoid and lunate fossae to the distal margin of the PQ, before and after mobilization of the muscle from its distal attachment. The mean distance from the distal edge of the PQ to the scaphoid fossa was 13.1 mm and to the lunate fossa was 10.7 mm. This increased to a mean of 26.2 mm for the scaphoid and a mean of 23.8 mm for the lunate fossa following mobilization of PQ. Subperiosteal retrograde release of the PQ from its distal margin will allow for the placement of a volar plate and insertion of locking peri-articular screws in the great majority of volar locking plate systems on the market.     

Why do we use arthroscopy for distal radius fractures?

The management of distal radius fractures needs to be adapted to the increasingly complex traumas in patients with greater functional requirements. The goal remains to restore normal anatomy in order to preserve function. A pre-operative assessment using x-rays and thin-slice CT scans with three-dimensional reconstructions enables the best possible understanding of the fracture prior to surgery and planning of the pre-operative strategy. Arthroscopy is a technique that allows visualisation of the bone fragments and their displacement, as well as their reduction. It is the only tool that allows diagnostic and prognostic assessment of the associated injuries. Arthroscopy is the gold standard for identifying and grading scapholunate injuries. It allows treatment of the lesions where necessary and a dynamic appreciation of the stability of the osteosynthesis. Recognition of articular fragmentation patterns and instability features can therefore aid treatment choice to prevent poor outcomes due to malunion and degenerative arthritis. We recommend arthroscopic-assisted internal fixation for articular fractures for any active patient, not only for young adults, displaced or a gap by more than 2 mm, potential scapholunate ligament injuries, and fractures of the ulnar styloid. A strong initial learning and a minimal experience are recommended to avoid the complications of this invaluable procedure.     

What are the radiological predictors of functional outcome following fractures of the distal radius?

The fracture most commonly treated by orthopaedic surgeons is that of the distal radius. However, as yet there is no consensus on what constitutes an 'acceptable' radiological position before or after treatment. This should be defined as the position that will predict good function in the majority of cases. In this paper we review the radiological indices that can be measured in fractures of the distal radius and try to identify potential predictors of functional outcome. In patients likely to have high functional demands, we recommend that the articular reconstruction be achieved with less than 2 mm of gap or step-off, the radius be restored to within 2 mm of its normal length, and that carpal alignment be restored. The ultimate aim of treatment is a pain-free, mobile wrist joint without functional limitation.     

Is single-stage minimally invasive plate fixation safe in open distal radius fractures with metadiaphyseal involvement?: Retrospective evaluation of 54 patients

Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and results of one-stage surgery in Gustilo grade 1 and 2 open distal radius fractures with metadiaphyseal involvement.Methods:This retrospective study included 54 patients with AO-2R3 and metadiaphyseal involvement according to the AO fracture classification. All fractures were treated with a long volar plate using the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique. The patients were divided into two groups as open fracture group (25 patients) and closed fracture group (29 patients), and the groups were compared for their union time and complications and functional and radiological results.Results:There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of clinical and radiographic results (P > .05 for both). The mean union time was 12.77 (range, 8-20) weeks in the open fracture group and 12.75 (range, 8-18) weeks in the closed fracture group. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of union time (P > .05). Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of major and minor complications. All fractures healed without the need for bone and/or soft tissue grafts.Conclusion:As a result of this study, using with long volar plate immediately minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis might be safely used as a single-stage definitive treatment for Gustilo grade 1 and 2 open distal radius fractures with metadiaphyseal involvement.Level of Evidence:Level IV, Therapeutic Study     

Bicortical K-wires for distal radius fracture fixation: how many?

The aim of this study was to find out whether number and position of K-wires influence the stability of distal radius fractures treated by percutaneous wire fixation. Patients who underwent K-wire fixation for unstable fractures of the distal radius over a period of three years were included in this retrospective study. Radiographs taken immediately after the procedure and radiographs taken after removal of K-wires were analysed to study three radiological parameters: palmar or dorsal tilt, radial inclination and ulnar variance. Loss of these angles was analysed statistically against the number of wires (2 or 3) and position of wires (from radial styloid or a combination of styloid and dorsal wires). Ninety-five fractures were analysed with a mean age of 52.8 years and male to female ratio of 1:2. Average loss of radial inclination was 5.2 degrees, loss of palmar tilt was 8.3 degrees and loss of ulnar variance was 3.4 mm. Using 3 wires or using a dorsal wire in addition to the styloid wires both improved the final radial length by 1.2 mm and 2 mm respectively, but the effects were statistically not significant. We found that the number or position of wires did not influence radiological outcome. Based on our findings we recommend the use of two K-wires: one from the radial styloid and one from the dorsal side for these fractures.     

What have we learned over the past 20 years about appendicitis in the elderly?

BACKGROUND: This study evaluates appendicitis in the elderly, comparing our findings to those previously published a decade earlier. METHODS: Comparison of appendicitis in the elderly (aged 60 years and older) from 1978 to 1988 with the following 10 years, 1988 to 1998. RESULTS: Overall (1978-1998) 26% of patients presented typically, one third delayed seeking care, with only half diagnosed correctly on admission. Computed tomography (CT) use increased (44% versus rarely in the previous decade). Perforation rates declined (72% first group versus 51% second group) with a concomitant drop in complications from 32% to 21% respectively. Overall, three fourths of complications occurred in patients with perforated appendicitis. Mortality rates remained constant. CONCLUSIONS: Appendicitis in the elderly is a difficult problem with delays in medical care, non-typical presentation resulting in incorrect diagnosis, relatively high rates of perforation often with associated postoperative complications and mortality. A higher index of suspicion with liberal early utilization of CT in uncertain cases may result in more appropriate management.     

Closed reduction of distal radius fractures: does instability mean irreducibility?

Introduction

The belief that not all distal radius fractures can be initially anatomically reduced with conservative means is rising. The aim of this study was to examine whether adequate reduction with a closed reduction technique is possible and to assess the importance of each step.

Materials and methods

We prospectively enrolled 63 distal radius fractures (62 patients). A standardized reduction technique was implemented. Reduction was radiologically evaluated in hanging traction, after reduction, and in plaster. Subgroup analysis was performed for fracture-dependent and fracture-independent factors on their influence on reduction.

Results

The mean radiological values (radial inclination, dorsal tilt, ulnar variance) showed near anatomic reduction of all fractures in plaster. Fracture severity according to AO classification, initial displacement, number of instability criteria and patient age did not affect the reduction outcome.

Conclusions

All types of enrolled fractures were nearly anatomically reduced. This contradicts the opinion that some “severe” fractures are too unstable to be initially reduced by closed means.     

Complex fractures of the proximal humerus in the elderly—outcome and complications after locking plate fixation

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with locking plates or primary arthroplasty remains a controversial issue in the management of complex proximal humerus fractures. Aim of this study was to evaluate the surgeon- and patient-based outcome of patients older than 65 years who underwent ORIF using locking plate fixation of a 3- or 4-part fracture of the proximal humerus. Twenty-seven patients older than 65 years were treated with locking plate fixation (PHILOS, Fa. Synthes, Umkirch, Germany). At an average follow-up of 44 months, the clinical and the subjective outcome were evaluated, and complications were analyzed. The mean age- and gender-related Constant score was 70% (30–100%) compared with 92% (47–108%) of the contralateral non-injured shoulder. The mean DASH score was 29 points (0–71). Five patients (18.5%) showed clinical signs of an impingement, which was related to malpositioning of the plate in 3 cases. Screw cutout was seen in 22.2% (6 patients). Avascular necrosis of the head or the tubercula was found in 8 patients (29.6%). The revision rate was 29.6%. However, the patients considered the functional status of their shoulder as “good” or “satisfactory.” The functional and patient-orientated results of the locking plate fixation of complex displaced proximal humerus fractures in the elderly are comparable to those of primary arthroplasty and minimally invasive treatment. Proper surgical technique (screw length, plate position) is mandatory for reducing the revision rate.