Open reduction and internal fixation compared to closed reduction and external fixation in distal radial fractures

Background and purpose In unstable distal radial fractures that are impossible to reduce or to maintain in reduced position, the treatment of choice is operation. The type of operation and the choice of implant, however, is a matter of discussion. Our aim was to investigate whether open reduction and internal fixation would produce a better result than traditional external fixation.

Methods 50 patients with an unstable or comminute distal radius fracture were randomized to either closed reduction and bridging external fixation, or open reduction and internal fixation using the TriMed system. The primary outcome parameter was grip strength, but the patients were followed for 1 year with objective clinical assessment, subjective outcome using DASH, and radiographic examination.

Results At 1 year postoperatively, grip strength was 90% (SD 16) of the uninjured side in the internal fixation group and 78% (17) in the external fixation group. Pronation/supination was 150° (15) in the internal fixation group and 136° (20) in the external fixation group at 1 year. There were no differences in DASH scores or in radiographic parameters. 5 patients in the external fixation group were reoperated due to malunion, as compared to 1 in the internal fixation group. 7 other cases were classified as radiographic malunion: 5 in the external fixation group and 2 in the internal fixation group.

Interpretation Internal fixation gave better grip strength and a better range of motion at 1 year, and tended to have less malunions than external fixation. No difference could be found regarding subjective outcome.     

Outcomes of surgically treated distal radius fractures associated with triangular fibrocartilage complex injury

Study DesignProspective cohort.IntroductionClinical studies that evaluate the correlation between associated lesions of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) and outcome of distal radius fractures expressed with the patient-rated disability are missing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of distal radius fractures associated with or without an injury of the TFCC.MethodsPatients undergoing operative treatment for distal radius fracture were prospectively enrolled (n = 70). TFCC was examined by wrist arthroscopy and injuries classified according to Palmer. Comparative analyses were performed on 45 patients with TFCC injury (injured group) and 25 patients with intact TFCC (intact group). The outcome measures included the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaires, 3 and 12 months after injury.ResultsTFCC was injured in 45 patients (64%). In patients with intact TFCC, mean total PRWE score was 27 (3 months) and 16 (12 months), compared to patients with TFCC injury with 40 (at 3 months) and 24 (at 12 months). Mean DASH scores were 26 and 13 at 3 and 12 months for the intact group and 39 and 27 for the injured group. PRWE and DASH results showed significant difference at 3 and 12 months when compared with Mann–Whitney test.DiscussionPRWE and DASH scores evaluation showed that patients with associated TFCC injury had greater pain and disability at 3 and 12 months after injury.ConclusionsDisability outcomes were worse in patients with distal radius fracture, where TFCC was injured. TFCC injuries are an important cofactor affecting the outcome of distal radius fractures.     

Results of acute arthroscopically repaired triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries associated with intra-articular distal radius fractures

Purpose: This study reviews the results of acute repair of peripheral ulnar-sided triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) detachment associated with intra-articular distal radius fractures. Type of Study: Two-year follow-up of patients who had undergone acute TFCC repair. Methods: Fifty-six patients underwent arthroscopically assisted treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures using external fixation and adjunctive percutaneous pinning between 1994 and 1998. Thirteen patients with an acute, complete tear of the ulnar attachment of the TFCC were treated using arthroscopic repair of the TFCC in addition to stabilization of the radius fracture. All patients were evaluated at a mean of 24 months (range, 17 to 35 months) with a physical examination, wrist radiographs, and a Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) module outcome assessment questionnaire. Results: Average wrist flexion, extension, pronation, and supination were 67.3, 61.8, 79.1, and 86.8, respectively. The average grip strength was 78% of the uninjured side. The results of the Gartland and Werley grading system were good to excellent in 12 patients and fair in 1 patient. The DASH outcome scores revealed a mean functional score of 13 and a mean athletic score of 12. None of the patients reported ulnar-sided pain at follow-up. Conclusions: Arthroscopically assisted TFCC repair in conjunction with distal radius fixation resulted in a high degree of patient satisfaction and good to excellent clinical outcomes.Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, Vol 19, No 5 (May-June), 2003: pp 511–516     

Monitoring of the first stages of bone healing with microdialysis

Background and purpose Promising results have been reported after volar locked plating of unstable dorsally displaced distal radius fractures. We investigated whether volar locked plating results in better patient-perceived, objective functional and radiographic outcomes compared to the less invasive external fixation.

Patients and methods 63 patients under 70 years of age, with an unstable extra-articular or non-comminuted intra-articular dorsally displaced distal radius fracture, were randomized to volar locked plating (n = 33) or bridging external fixation. Patient-perceived outcome was assessed with the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) questionnaire.

Results At 3 and 6 months, the volar plate group had better DASH and PRWE scores but at 12 months the scores were similar. Objective function, measured as grip strength and range of movement, was superior in the volar plate group but the differences diminished and were small at 12 months. Axial length and volar tilt were retained slightly better in the volar plate group.

Interpretation Volar plate fixation is more advantageous than external fixation, in the early rehabilitation period.     

Arthroscopic reduction versus fluoroscopic reduction in the management of intra-articular distal radius fractures

PurposeAlthough arthroscopy offers an unparalleled view of intra-articular pathology, its use in the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures remains controversial. This study was designed to compare functional and radiologic outcomes of arthroscopically assisted (AA) versus fluoroscopically assisted (FA) reduction and external fixation of distal radius fractures.Type of studyRetrospective, case-matched comparison of 2 different procedures.MethodsBetween January 1995 and December 1999, 15 patients with comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures underwent AA external fixation and percutaneous pinning. Fifteen patients underwent external fixation and FA reduction and pinning. Patients in both groups were matched for fracture pattern and age.ResultsFollow-up evaluation consisted of an evaluation of grip strength and range of motion as well as radiographic evaluation of palmar tilt, radial shortening, stepoff, and degenerative changes. Health-related quality of life outcomes were assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Patients who underwent AA surgery had significantly improved supination compared with those who underwent FA surgery (88° v 73°; P = .02). AA reduction also resulted in improved wrist extension (mean, 77° v 69°; P = .01) and wrist flexion (mean, 78° v 59°; P = .02). Radial shortening, Knirk and Jupiter congruity grades, and DASH scores were similar for both groups.ConclusionsAA reduction and fixation of intra-articular distal radius fractures permits a more thorough inspection of the ulnar-sided components of the injury. At follow-up evaluation, patients who underwent AA procedures had a greater degree of supination, flexion, and extension than patients undergoing FA surgery.Level of evidenceLevel II prospective cohort study.     

Dorsal bridge plating versus bridging external fixation for management of complex distal radius fractures

IntroductionDistal radius fractures are the most frequent upper limb injuries encountered by orthopedic surgeons. Surgical treatment of distal radius fractures is preserved for unstable and displaced fractures. A randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the radiological and functional outcomes of bridge plating (BP) to external fixation (EF) in comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures.MethodsSixty patients with distal radius fractures were eligible for treatment by means of ligamentotaxis using either a dorsal bridge plate (30 patients) or an external fixator (30 patients) with or without supplementary Kirschner wires (K-wires). Radiological evaluation was done using the radial inclination angle, radial length, and the volar tilt. Clinical evaluation was performed using ranges of wrist motion, grip strength, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and a validated Arabic version of the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaireResultsPatients were followed up for 12 months. No significant difference was found in terms of radiographic parameters or ranges of wrist motion. At 3-months follow-up, bridge plating group had stronger grip strength, lower Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores, and lower Visual Analogue Scale. However, both groups had similar functional outcomes at last follow-up. External fixation group had a higher rate of postoperative complications.ConclusionIn comparison to external fixation, bridge plating may provide earlier functional recovery with lower complication rates. However, no functional or radiological superiority were demonstrated at 12-months follow-up.     

Wrist-bridging versus non-bridging external fixation for displaced distal radius fractures: A randomized assessor-blind clinical trial of 38 patients followed for 1 year

Background?Non-bridging external fixation has been introduced to achieve better fracture fixation and functional outcomes in distal radius fractures, but has not been specifically evaluated in a randomized study in the elderly. The purpose of this trial was to compare wrist-bridging and non-bridging external fixation for displaced distal radius fractures.

Method?The inclusion criteria were women ≥ 50 or men ≥ 60 years, acute extraarticular or intraarticular fracture, and dorsal angulation of ≥20° or ulnar variance ≥ 5?mm. The patients completed the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire before and at 10, 26 and 52 weeks after surgery. Pain (visual analog scale), range of motion and grip strength were measured by a blinded assessor.

Results?38 patients (mean age 71 years, 31 women) were randomized at surgery (19 to each group). Mean operating time was shorter for wrist-bridging fixation by 10 (95% CI 3–17) min. There was no significant difference in DASH scores between the groups. No statistically significant differences in pain score, range of motion, grip strength, or patient satisfaction were found. The non-bridging group had a significantly better radial length at 52 weeks; mean difference in change in ulnar variance from baseline was 1.4 (95% CI 0.1–2.7) mm (p = 0.04). Volar tilt and radial inclination were similar in both groups.

Interpretation?For moderately or severely displaced distal radius fractures in the elderly, non-bridging external fixation had no clinically relevant advantage over wrist-bridging fixation but was more effective in maintaining radial length.     

Bridging and non‐bridging external fixation in the treatment of unstable fractures of the distal radius: A retrospective study of 588 patients

Background and purpose?Bridging external fixation is used more frequently than non‐bridging fixation in the management of unstable distal radius fractures, despite evidence from randomized controlled trials of better outcome with the latter technique. This study was designed to investigate the generalizability of the technique of non‐bridging external fixation, and to define the indications for the use of each technique and their complications.

Methods?641 patients with unstable displaced fractures of the distal radius were treated with bridging or non‐bridging external fixation. Non‐bridging external fixation was used where there was space for pins in the distal fragment. 52 patients were lost to follow‐up, leaving 588 patients available for study. Complete data from radiographic measurements after fracture healing were available for 546 patients. 59 % of fractures were treated with the non‐bridging technique.

Results?Fractures treated with bridging external fixation had a 6 times increased risk of dorsal malunion (p < 0.001) and a 2.5 times increased risk of radial shortening (p < 0.001) after adjusting for confounding factors (95% CI for odds ratio: 3–13 and 1.5–4, respectively) compared to non‐bridging techniques. Minor pin tract infections were more common in the non‐bridging group.

Interpretation?Non‐bridging external fixation of the distal radius is a generalizable technique, and reduces the risk of dorsal malunion compared with bridging external fixation. Major complication rates are low and the technique is applicable to most unstable fractures of the distal radius. We recommend that non‐bridging external fixation be used where there is space for the pins in the distal fragment.     

Treatment of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius: fluoroscopic or arthroscopic reduction?

In a randomised prospective study, 20 patients with intra-articular fractures of the distal radius underwent arthroscopically- and fluoroscopically-assisted reduction and external fixation plus percutaneous pinning. Another group of 20 patients with the same fracture characteristics underwent fluoroscopically-assisted reduction alone and external fixation plus percutaneous pinning. The patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically at follow-up of 24 months. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and modified Mayo wrist score were used at 3, 9, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. In the arthroscopically- and fluoroscopically-assisted group, triangular fibrocartilage complex tears were found in 12 patients (60%), complete or incomplete scapholunate ligament tears in nine (45%), and lunotriquetral ligament tears in four (20%). They were treated either arthroscopically or by open operation. Patients who underwent arthroscopically- and fluoroscopically-assisted treatment had significantly better supination, extension and flexion at all time points than those who had fluoroscopically-assisted surgery. The mean DASH scores were similar for both groups at 24 months, whereas the difference in the mean modified Mayo wrist scores remained statistically significant. Although the groups are small, it is clear that the addition of arthroscopy to the fluoroscopically-assisted treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures improves the outcome. Better treatment of associated intra-articular injuries might also have been a reason for the improved outcome.     

Ulnar nerve palsy associated with fracture of the distal radius

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical features and outcome of a series of patients with complete motor and sensory ulnar nerve palsy associated with a fracture of the distal radius. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. SETTING: Level 1 trauma center. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Five adults with acute complete motor and sensory ulnar nerve palsy associated with fracture of the distal radius were treated during a 2 year period. There were 3 men and 2 women, with an average age of 42 years (range, 33 to 56 years). All 5 distal radius fractures were high energy and widely displaced. Three patients had an associated ulna fracture (2 styloid, 1 styloid and distal diaphysis), and 1 had a complete triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) avulsion from the distal ulna (associated with an open wound). Two patients had open fractures. INTERVENTION: Open reduction and internal fixation of the distal radius fracture in 4 patients and external fixation in 1 patient. Three patients had exploration and release of the ulnar nerve because it was associated with an acute carpal tunnel syndrome. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Recovery of ulnar nerve function. RESULTS: At an average follow-up of 17 months, 4 patients had complete or near-complete recovery of ulnar nerve function. One patient had moderate motor and mild sensory dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Acute ulnar nerve palsy may occur in association with high-energy, widely displaced fractures of the distal radius. These are usually neurapraxic injuries that recover to normal or near-normal strength and sensation. We recommend exploration and release of a complete ulnar nerve palsy associated with a fracture of the distal radius fracture when there is an open wound or an acute carpal tunnel syndrome, and observation without exploration otherwise.     

外固定架治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折的临床观察

目的：评价外固定支架治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折的临床疗效。方法：自2008年3月至2009年12月,应用外固定支架或辅以克氏针、“T”形交锁加压钢板（T—LCP）治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折37例,男14例,女23例;年龄30-79岁,平均59．1岁。根据AO分型：Cl型3例,C2型11例,C3型23例。术后定期进行X线和腕关节功能评估。结果：37例患者均获得随访,时间8-24个月,平均12个月,均临床愈合,平均愈合时间8周。根据Gratland—Werley标准进行功能评价：优16例,良17例,可4例,优良率89．0％。结论：外固定支架治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折可取得满意的临床疗效。     

Open reduction and internal fixation compared to closed reduction and external fixation in distal radial fractures: A randomized study of 50 patients

Background and purpose In unstable distal radial fractures that are impossible to reduce or to maintain in reduced position, the treatment of choice is operation. The type of operation and the choice of implant, however, is a matter of discussion. Our aim was to investigate whether open reduction and internal fixation would produce a better result than traditional external fixation.Methods 50 patients with an unstable or comminute distal radius fracture were randomized to either closed reduction and bridging external fixation, or open reduction and internal fixation using the TriMed system. The primary outcome parameter was grip strength, but the patients were followed for 1 year with objective clinical assessment, subjective outcome using DASH, and radiographic examination.Results At 1 year postoperatively, grip strength was 90% (SD 16) of the uninjured side in the internal fixation group and 78% (17) in the external fixation group. Pronation/supination was 150° (15) in the internal fixation group and 136° (20) in the external fixation group at 1 year. There were no differences in DASH scores or in radiographic parameters. 5 patients in the external fixation group were reoperated due to malunion, as compared to 1 in the internal fixation group. 7 other cases were classified as radiographic malunion: 5 in the external fixation group and 2 in the internal fixation group.Interpretation Internal fixation gave better grip strength and a better range of motion at 1 year, and tended to have less malunions than external fixation. No difference could be found regarding subjective outcome.     

Patient-perceived outcome after displaced distal radius fractures. A comparison between radiological parameters, objective physical variables, and the DASH score.

Outcome after distal radius fractures has traditionally been measured by radiological parameters and objective physical variables. To what extent these measurements reflect outcome as perceived by the patient has been questioned. We evaluated the association between radiological position, objective physical result (grip strength and range of movement), and the patient-perceived outcome, measured with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand outcome (DASH) score, in 78 patients with a healed unilateral distal radius fracture treated with either closed reduction and plaster splint or external fixation. Fifty-seven females and 21 males (median age 59 yr; range, 22-95) were retrospectively assessed after a mean of 22 months and the mean DASH score was 13 points. Linear correlations between final radiological and objective physical measurements and DASH score were weak or insignificant. However, radial shortening > or = 2mm, dorsal angulation >15 degrees, and radial angulation >10 degrees were each significantly associated with a poorer DASH score. Reduced grip strength, extension, and ulnar deviation correlated with a poorer DASH score. In conclusion, we found that better final radiological and objective physical results were associated with a better patient-perceived outcome, as measured by the DASH score, in this patient group.     

Peak incidence of distal radius fractures due to ice skating on natural ice in The Netherlands

An increase of distal radius fractures was seen in 2009 when an extended cold spell allowed natural ice skating in Amsterdam. This resulted in overload of our Emergency Departments and operating rooms. This study reports patient and fracture characteristics of these injuries. We also determined potential skating-related risk factors. All patients who sustained a distal radius fracture during natural ice skating between January 3 and January 12, 2009 were included. Patient and fracture characteristics, treatment, validated outcome (Quick DASH) at 3 months after injury were determined. Natural ice skating accounted for a 5.5-fold increase of distal radius fractures (92 fractures) compared to a similar time period without natural ice skating in 2008. Fracture types were AO-type A, n = 50, type B, n = 11 and type C, n = 31. Twenty-eight patients were casted without reduction. Fifty-four patients underwent at least one reduction before casting. The non-operative group consisted of 67 patients (68 fractures, male/female 18/49) with an average age of 55.5 years. Twenty-three patients (24 fractures) underwent internal fixation. Quick DASH for the whole group was a mean of 23.1 points (range 0–95). The mean Quick DASH for the non-operatively treated group was 19.9 points (range 0–95), for the operatively treated group 31.7 points (range 2–65). Distal radius fractures increased 5.5-fold during a period with natural ice skating. Women aged 50 and over were predominantly affected. Most fractures were extra-articular, and the vast majority was treated non-operatively. Utilization of wrist-protecting devices should be considered during future natural ice periods.     

Randomised study of non-bridging external fixation compared with intramedullary fixation of unstable distal radial fractures

Abstract

This is a randomised study to compare two types of osteosynthesis to mobilise wrists after distal fractures of the radius. Inclusion criteria were Older type 2 and 3 fractures. External fixation was managed with Hoffmann II compact non-bridging. Internal fixation was managed with Micronail. Patients were followed up for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the results of the disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire. The secondary outcomes were answers to the patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE), grip strength, satisfaction, radial length, and volar tilt. Thirty patients were randomised to have external fixation and 31 to have internal fixation.There were no significant differences in DASH score. Internal fixation gave significantly better grip strength at five (p = 0.00) and 12 weeks (p = 0.03). The operating time was significantly shorter (p = 0.00) when non-bridging external fixation was used, and there were minor radiological differences. An activity-based costing analysis showed that external fixation cost three times more overall.     

Dsteosynthesis with long volar locking plates for meta- physeal-diaphyseal fractures of the distal radius

Objective：Metaphyseal-diaphyseal fractures of the distal radius are a major treatment dilemma and orthopaedic surgeons have to pay due consideration to restoration of anatomy of distal radius together with rotation of the radial shaft and maintenance of radial bow and interosseous space.We performed this study to evaluate the clinic-radiological outcome of metaphyseal-diaphyseal fractures of the distal radius treated with long volar locking plates.Methods：This prospective study involved 27 patients （22 males and 5 females） with metaphyseal-diaphyseal fracture of the distal radius.Their mean age was （30.12±11.48） years （range 19-52 years） and the follow-up was 26.8 months （range 22-34 months）.All patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation with a long volar locking plate.According to AO/OTA classification,there were 7 type A3,13 type C2 and 7 type C3 fractures.Subjective assessment was done based on the disabilities of the arm,shoulder and hand （DASH） questionnaire.Functional evaluation was done by measuring grip strength and range of motion around the wrist and the radiological determinants included radial angle,radial length,volar angle and ulnar variance.The final assessment was done according to Gartland and Werley scoring system.Results：Postoperative radiological parameters were well maintained throughout the trial,and there was significant improvement in the functional parameters from 6 weeks to final follow-up.The average DASH scores improved from 37.5 at 6 weeks to 4.2 at final follow-up.Final assessment using Gartland and Werley scoring system revealed 66.67%（n=l8） excellent and 33.33% （n=9） good results.There was one case of superficial infection which responded to antibiotics and another carpel tunnel syndrome which was managed conservatively.Conclusion：Volar locking plate fixation for metaphyseal-diaphyseal fractures of distal radius is associated with excellent to good functional outcome,early rehabilitation and minimal complications.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal radius fractures: results using the trimed fixation system

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the early results of patients with displaced and unstable distal radius fractures treated with fragment-specific fixation.DESIGN Prospective and consecutive. SETTING: Private orthopaedic practice. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-five patients with 27 fractures with an average follow-up of 29 months (range 24-36 months) treated with fragment-specific fixation for unstable radius fractures. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Clinical and radiographic examination. Disabilities of the arm, hand, and shoulder and patient-rated wrist evaluation outcome measures.RESULTS Patients had an average 61 degrees of dorsiflexion and 54 degrees of palmarflexion at the wrist. Twenty-five fractures healed in acceptable alignment, with one loss of reduction and one patient death. Mean +/- standard deviation DASH score was 17 +/- 18, and PRWE score was 19 +/- 22. CONCLUSION: Unstable distal radius fractures can be reliably and anatomically reduced and stabilized using fragment-specific fixation. Fixation of markedly comminuted fractures is secure enough to allow immediate motion and does not require casting or external fixation. Preliminary clinical and radiographic results are excellent, and patient satisfaction is high. Anatomic reduction with early motion can be achieved in a routine fashion on unstable distal radius fractures using the described technique.     

Fractures of the distal radius treated with a nonbridging external fixation technique using multiplanar k-wires

PURPOSE: Joint-bridging external fixation is a minimally invasive treatment option for distal radius fractures. Although radial length can be restored easily the anatomic reduction of articular fragments and restoration of the normal volar tilt proves to be more difficult. A method of nonbridging hybrid fixation of distal radius fractures facilitates fracture reduction and allows for free wrist movement. METHODS: Twenty-five consecutive patients with fractures of the distal radius were treated with nonbridging external fixation for 6 weeks. The stepwise surgical technique comprised a preliminary joint-bridging construction for reduction purposes, the subsequent insertion of 3 to 4 K-wires in the distal fragment, the assembling of wires to a bar nearly parallel to the fracture line, and lastly the removal of the joint-bridging part. Clinical and radiologic evaluation was performed on the first and seventh days and at 6 weeks and 2 years after surgery. RESULTS: All fractures united. Palmar tilt (> or =0 degrees ) and articular surface (articular step-off < 2 mm) were restored in all patients whereas loss of radial length occurred in 4 patients having the distal fracture fragment secured with 3 K-wires. No radial shortening was seen in fractures with 4 K-wires inserted in the distal fragment. Functional results at 2 years after surgery showed an average extension of 55 degrees and flexion of 64 degrees without significant differences between extra-articular and intra-articular fractures. There was no extensor tendinitis or pin loosening in the distal fragment; however, 3 pin track infections of proximal pins occurred. CONCLUSIONS: This surgical technique of nonbridging external fixation is a good treatment option for distal radius fractures: it permits wrist movement. We recommend the insertion of 4 K-wires in the distal fracture fragment.     

桡骨远端B型骨折

目的：探讨桡骨远端B型骨折腕关节镜直视下复位后予Herbert螺钉固定治疗的临床疗效。方法：2013年6月至2015年7月,采用腕关节镜直视下手法复位及撬拨复位Herbert螺钉固定同时修复关节内软组织损伤的方法治疗桡骨远端患者28例,男15例,女13例;年龄17～69岁,平均45.3岁;病程为伤后4～7d。受伤后患者具有典型桡骨远端骨折体征,X线片及CT明确诊断,并确定不合并其余部位骨折及神经血管损伤,不合并严重内科疾病,无手术禁忌证。按AO/OTA分型：B1型8例,B2型7例,B3型13例。随访观察骨折愈合情况及腕关节功能恢复情况,并评定疗效。结果：全部患者无手术并发症发生,28例桡骨远端B型骨折术后均获随访,平均随访时间（12.1±1.4）个月,骨折全部愈合,测量掌倾角（15.2±3.4）°,尺偏角（20.4±6.4）°。根据Cooney腕关节评分量表评估疗效,优21例,良5例,可2例。术中关节镜检合并舟月韧带撕裂3例,合并月三角韧带撕裂1例,合并TFCC损伤16例。结论：腕关节镜辅助下复位Herbert螺钉固定治疗桡骨远端B型骨折可使关节面平整度最大程度恢复,应用Herbert螺钉固定创伤小,术后恢复时间短,减少骨折后创伤性关节炎的发病,同时可对骨折合并关节内韧带及软骨损伤一并修复恢复关节稳定性,降低腕关节慢性疼痛的发生率。     

关节镜诊治关节内桡骨远端粉碎性骨折的软组织损伤

Objective To diagnose and evaluate soft tissue injuries in intra-articular fractures of the distal radius using arthroseopy. Methods Twenty young patients with displaced intra-articular fractures of distal radius were recruited in this prospective study. Three AO C2 and 17 C3 fractures were included. After arthroseopie examination fractures of distal radius were treated by external fixation with limited internal fixation or open plate fixation. Results Triangular fibrocartilage complex （TFCC） injury was found in 18 patients （90%） . Most were isolated Palmer type 1D injuries （67 % ）. Seapho-lunate ligament injury was found in two patients： one partial tear （grade H） and one complete tear （grade HI ）. Follow-ups ranged from 6 to 18 months. At the last follow-up, wrist function was excellent in one patient （6%）, good in eight（44% ） and fair in 11 （50%）. Conclusion TFCC injuries are common in intra-artieular fractures of the distal radius while injuries to seapho-lunate ligament are uncommon.