Open reduction and internal fixation of distal radial fractures using the Pi-plate

The authors reviewed 22 patients with 23 fractures of the distal radius, who were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using the low profile contourable titanium dorsal distal radius AO Pi-plate. There were four men and 18 women with a mean age of 57 years. The mean follow up period was 26 months (range, 12-48 months). The modified Lidstrom's radiographic scoring system and the modified Gartland and Werley' functional scoring systems were used for evaluation of the outcome. An excellent clinical outcome was present in four patients, a good in 10, a fair in seven, and a poor in two. Radiographic results were excellent in 12 patients, good in 10, and fair in one patient. Seven patients required removal of the plate for median nerve compression and tendonitis. The Pi-plate can be used in a wide spectrum of distal radial fractures including complex comminuted intra-articular (AO type C3) fractures with satisfactory functional outcome and low rate of complication.     

Trimed fixation system for displaced fractures of the distal radius

OBJECTIVE: To study the functional outcome of displaced distal radius fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation with the use of fragment-specific fixation. METHODS: Fifteen consecutive displaced distal radius fractures (5 extra-articular and 10 intra-articular) were treated using the Trimed distal radius fixation system (Trimed, Valencia, CA). Radiographic assessment and range of motion of the affected wrist were evaluated postoperatively. Functional outcomes were evaluated with use of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire and the Gartland and Werley scoring system. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 11 months. The patients initiated controlled passive and active motion exercises during the first week. The mean score on the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire was 16 points. The mean return to work was 12 weeks. The functional outcome was 80% excellent or good by the Gartland and Werley scoring system for intra-articular fractures and 80% excellent for extra-articular fractures. Range of active motion in intra-articular fractures was measured 60 degrees wrist extension, 64 degrees flexion, 65 degrees pronation, and 70 degrees supination, and for extra-articular fractures, 75 degrees extension, 70 degrees flexion, 80 degrees pronation, and 75 degrees supination. There was failure of fixation with loss of the reduction that was achieved at the time of operation in one patient. CONCLUSIONS: Fragment-specific fixation of unstable distal radius fractures using the Trimed system appears to be effective. Anatomic reduction, earlier range of motion, and improved functional results can be achieved using low-profile implants.     

手术治疗桡骨远端骨折的预后及影响因素分析

目的 探讨手术治疗桡骨远端骨折的预后并分析其影响因素. 方法 1999年1月至2008年7月手术治疗桡骨远端骨折104例(105侧),使用锁定加压钢板63侧,T形钢板40侧,克氏针1侧,克氏针加外固定架1侧.采用影像学评分、Gartland & Werley评分评价疗效,并分析其影响因素. 结果所有患者随访3～72个月,平均25个月.根据Batra影像学评分:优60侧,良37侧,可5侧,差3侧,优良率92.4%(97/105).年龄<65岁患者的影像学评分优于年龄≥65岁患者(P=0.013).根据Gartland & Werley评分:优84侧,良20侧,可1侧,优良率99.0%(104/105).骨折分型为轻型患者的Gartland & Werley评分优于骨折分型严重的患者(P=0.046).术中复位满意患者的Gartland & Werley结果为优的可能性是欠满意者的3,6倍(P=0.042).结论 切开复位板钉内固定治疗桡骨远端骨折可以取得良好的疗效.年龄是术后影像学评分的影响因素,骨折分型和术中复位情况可以对术后功能评分产生影响.     

Low-profile dorsal plating for dorsally angulated distal radius fractures: an outcomes study

PURPOSE: Controversy exists surrounding the effectiveness and complications associated with dorsal plating for distal radius fractures. This study evaluated the functional outcome of dorsal plating for dorsally angulated distal radius fractures at a single institution. METHODS: Thirty patients formed the study cohort. All plates were low profile and stainless steel. Radiographic parameters, range of motion, and strength compared with the uninjured side were recorded. The functional outcome was evaluated by the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire and the Gartland and Werley scoring system. RESULTS: The median patient age at surgery was 59 years. The median follow-up period was 18 months. According to the AO classification system, there were 4 type A fractures, 5 type B fractures, and 21 type C fractures. The median preoperative dorsal angulation was 30 degrees, and the median postoperative angulation was -4 degrees volar. Sixteen patients with fractures had an intra-articular step-off or gap, which were all corrected to neutral by the procedure. Seven patients with the fractures showed positive ulnar variance, all corrected to neutral at time of follow-up evaluation. Compared with the contralateral side, the mean extension and flexion were 88% and 81%, respectively; pronation and supination were 89% and 87%, respectively; and grip strength and thumb pinch were 78% and 94%, respectively. The mean postoperative Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire score was 15 points, and 28 patients had Gartland and Werley scores of good or excellent. No patients needed to have their plates removed, and no extensor tendon rupture was reported. One patient lost reduction, 1 patient needed a tenolysis of the extensor pollicis longus tendon, and 2 patients required the removal of a single metaphyseal screw. CONCLUSIONS: Results from this study show that patients can expect to have 80% of their range of motion and strength after dorsal plating for distal radius fractures. Moreover, 93% of the patients will have good to excellent functional outcomes. Complications from dorsal plating may be caused by the specific plate used, rather than by the technique itself, supporting a dorsal approach for dorsally angulated distal radius fractures.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of intra articular and unstable fractures of the distal radius using the AO distal radius plate

This study reports the results of open reduction and internal fixation of 25 dorsally displaced distal radial fractures using a specifically designed plate for the distal radius, the AO pi plate (Synthes Ltd, Paoli, USA). Twenty-one of these fractures were complex and intra-articular (AO Type 'C'). Measurement of range of motion of the affected wrist at an average follow-up of 16 months revealed a median return of 60 degrees of wrist extension, 40 degrees of wrist flexion, 90 degrees of pronation and 90 degrees of supination. Radiographic assessment revealed restoration of normal radial length, inclination and palmar tilt in all but six cases. The final outcome, as assessed by the Gartland and Werley scale, was excellent in four cases, good in 11, and fair in ten cases. Complications were seen in five patients.     

Treatment of distal radius fractures with a low-profile dorsal plating system: an outcomes assessment

PURPOSE: To evaluate objective functional and radiographic outcomes after internal fixation of acute, displaced, and unstable fractures of the distal aspect of the radius in adults by using a low-profile dorsal plating system. Our hypothesis was that the low-profile dorsal plating system would allow for a reduction of extensor tendon irritation and pain and provide stable osseous fixation. METHODS: Sixty consecutive unstable fractures in 59 patients were treated by open reduction internal fixation using a low-profile dorsal plating system. There were 29 type A, 14 type B, and 8 type C fractures (AO classification system). Fifty patients with 51 fractures returned for outcomes assessment by physical examination, plain radiographs, and completion of a validated musculoskeletal function assessment questionnaire. The minimum follow-up period was 1 year; the mean follow-up period was 24 months. Clinical evaluation was performed and plain radiographs were assessed for maintenance of immediate postoperative reduction and implant position. Objective functional assessment was obtained through the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire. RESULTS: Outcomes analysis showed no cases of extensor tendon irritation or rupture. Hardware removal was performed in 1 patient but no extensor tendon irritation or rupture was evidenced. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 11.9; implant-related discomfort was minimal. All patients had an excellent (31 patients) or good (19 patients) result according to the scoring system of Gartland and Werley. The mean active range of motion was greater than 80% of that of the contralateral wrist in flexion/extension, pronation/supination, and ulnar/radial deviation. Extensor tendon function was unimpaired in all patients. Grip and pinch strength averaged 90% and 94% of the contralateral sides, respectively. Radiographic evaluation showed no change in fracture reduction or implant position. CONCLUSIONS: The treatment of distal radius fractures with a low-profile stainless steel dorsal plating system is a safe and effective method that provides stable internal fixation and allows for full extensor tendon glide and full metacarpophalangeal joint motion. Objective outcome testing showed uniformly good to excellent recovery of wrist and hand function in all patients. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level IV.     

影响AO掌侧锁定加压接骨板治疗桡骨远端骨折疗效因素的随访研究

目的 通过分析AO掌侧锁定加压接骨板(locking compression plate LCP)治疗桡骨远端骨折的随访结果,探讨影响掌侧LCP治疗桡骨远端骨折疗效的因素.方法 对2004年7月-2007年10月,在我科采用AO掌侧LCP治疗的55例桡骨远端骨折患者进行随访.随访内容包括测量腕关节运动范围及握力,应用Gartland/Werley腕关节评分法和DASH上肢功能评定标准进行评分.结果 55例患者获得6～44个月的随访(平均17.3个月),骨折均愈合.疗效按Cartard/Werley腕关节评分:优32例,良10例,可12例,差1例,优良率76.4%;DASH上肢功能评定得分为[(9.3±13.8)分,x±s,下同].≤55岁组DASH评分为(9.2±15.6)分,Cartland/Wedey腕关节评分为(3.8 4±5.2);＞55岁组DASH评分为(9.4±11.2)分,Gartland/erley腕关节评分为(4.8±5.1);两组间差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05).单纯桡骨远端骨折组DASH评分为(4.9±6.4)分,Gaaland/Wedcy腕关节评分为(2.7±3.8);伴有尺侧损伤或严重局部软组织损伤组DASH评分为(14.1±18.0)分,Gartland/Werley腕关节评分为(5.9±6.0);两组间差异有统计学意义(P＜0.05).结论 AO掌侧LCP治疗桡骨远端骨折的固定效果好,配合适当的术后功能锻炼,可取得良好的疗效.采用AO掌侧IEP作内固定在≤55岁和＞55岁两个年龄组中腕关节功能恢复相近,而伴有尺侧损伤或严重局部软组织损伤者功能恢复较差.     

AO新型锁定内固定系统治疗不稳定型桡骨远端骨折的疗效观察

目的 探讨AO新型2.4 mm锁定内固定系统治疗不稳定型桡骨远端骨折的临床疗效.方法 2007年5月至2008年10月,应用AO 2.4 mm锁定内固定系统治疗115例(120侧)小稳定型桡骨远端骨折患者,其中5例为双侧骨折.骨折按AO分型:A型35侧(A2型7侧,A3型28侧),B型15侧(B1型3侧,B2型8侧,B3型4侧),C型70侧(C1型42侧,C2型20侧,C3型8侧).开放伤110例,按Gustilo-Anderson分型:Ⅰ型6例,Ⅱ型4例.采用单纯掌侧锁定加压钢板(LCP)固定78侧,单纯背侧LCP固定16侧,背侧加桡背侧联合固定26侧.结果 98例患者获得随访,其中3例为双侧骨折患者,随访率为84.2%.随访时间为6～15个月,平均8个月.X线片示所有患者骨折均达到骨性愈合,无术后感染、内固定松动、背侧肌腱激惹、正中神经刺激症状发生.患者腕关节活动度平均为背伸54°,掌屈58°,旋前72°,旋后760°.根据Sarmiento改良的Garland & Werley评分方法评定疗效:优55侧,良32侧,可14侧,优良率为86.1%.结论 AO 2.4 mm锁定内固定系统可为多种类型的桡骨远端骨折提供个体化的内固定选择,且骨折复位、固定满意,患者腕关节功能预后良好.

Abstract：

Objective To observe the clinical outcome of AO 2.4 mm locking plate system used for unstable distal radius fractures. Methods From May 2007 to October 2008, 115 patients (5 cases of both sides) with unstable distal radius fractures were managed by AO 2.4 mm locking plate system. There were 35 fractures of type A, 15 type B and 70 type C according to AO classification. Of them, 10 fractures were open, with 6 of type 1 and 4 of type 2, according to Gustilo-Anderson Classification. Volar plating was conducted in 78 cases, dorsal plating in 16 cases and dorsal + radial plating in 26 cases. Results Ninety-eight patients (3 cases of both sides) were followed up for an average of 8 (range, 6 to 15) months. The follow-up rate was 84.2%. Radiographic bone union was achieved in all cases without infection, implant loosening, or tendon and median nerve irritations. The average ROM was 54°, 58°, 72°, and 76° for dorsi-extension, palmer flexion, pronation and supination respectively. According to Gartland & Werley Scores modified by Sarmiento, there were 55 excellent cases, 32 good and 14 fair, with an excellent to good rate of 86.1%. Conclusion AO 2.4 mm locking plate system can offer individualized fixation regimen for unstable distal ra-dius fractures, leading to satisfactory fracture reduction and fixation with predictable clinical outcomes.     

The outcome of intra-articular distal radius fractures treated with fragment-specific fixation

PURPOSE: To assess the clinical, radiographic, and functional outcome of treating intra-articular distal radius fractures with fragment-specific fixation. METHODS: A retrospective review of 81 patients with 85 intra-articular distal radius fractures who were treated with fragment-specific fixation was performed. Minimum time to follow-up evaluation was 1 year, with a mean time of 32 months. The immediate postoperative films were compared with those taken at the final follow-up evaluation. Radiographs of the uninjured wrist were also obtained at the final follow-up evaluation for comparison. Patients were examined for wrist and finger range of motion, deformity, and grip strength, and they completed a standard Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand outcome survey. RESULTS: According to Gartland and Werley scoring there were 61 excellent and 24 good results. Flexion and extension of the surgically treated wrist at the final follow-up evaluation averaged 85% and 91%, respectively, of the uninjured wrist; grip strength averaged 92% compared with the uninjured side. The average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand outcome score for the injured wrist was 9. Sixty-two percent of patients achieved a 100 degrees arc of flexion and extension and normal forearm rotation by postoperative week 6. Radiographic alignment was maintained between immediate postoperative and final follow-up films, and there were no cases of symptomatic arthritis at the final follow-up evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: Fragment-specific fixation is a reasonable alternative for treating intra-articular fractures of the distal radius. At final follow-up evaluations, patients had good to excellent results with respect to range of motion, grip strength, radiographic alignment, and satisfaction scores. Stable fixation allowed starting active and passive motion of the wrist without compromising postoperative alignment. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.     

“Sandwich” Plating for Intra-articular Distal Radius Fractures with Volar and Dorsal Metaphyseal Comminution

Introduction Intra-articular distal radius fractures with volar and dorsal comminution present a special challenge to the hand surgeon. Methods Ten patients formed the study cohort. All plates were low profile and stainless steel. Radiographic parameters, range of motion, and strength compared to the uninjured side were recorded. Functional outcome was evaluated by Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and Gartland and Werley scoring system. Results Median age at surgery was 58 years (range, 24 to 86). Mean follow-up was 17 months (range, 12 to 28). According to the AO classification system, there were three type C2 and seven type C3 fractures. Median preoperative dorsal angulation was 24 deg; median postoperative dorsal angulation was 3 deg. Eighty percent (8) of the fractures also had an intra-articular step-off or gap, all of which were corrected to neutral by the procedure. Compared with the contralateral side, mean extension and flexion were 73 and 75%, respectively, pronation and supination were 95 and 88%, respectively, and grip strength and thumb pinch were 72 and 87%, respectively. Mean postoperative DASH score was 16 points, and 70% (7) of the patients had Gartland and Werley scores of good or excellent. None of the patients needed to have their plates removed, and no extensor tendon rupture was reported. Conclusions The “sandwich” plating technique is an effective method of regaining near-anatomic reconstruction of intra-articular, volarly and dorsally comminuted distal radius fractures. Results from this study demonstrate that patients can expect to regain about 80% of their range of motion and strength. Moreover, 70% of the patients will have good to excellent functional outcomes. This is the first study to examine range of motion and functional outcome of low-profile “sandwich” plating without plate removal.     

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.     

掌侧入路斜T形钢板内固定治疗桡骨远端不稳定骨折

目的探讨掌侧入路斜T形钢板治疗桡骨远端不稳定骨折的临床疗效。方法对25例桡骨远端不稳定骨折采用掌侧入路斜T形钢板内固定并植骨治疗。结果 25例均获得随访,时间6～18个月。X线片显示骨折全部愈合。根据Gartland-Wefley腕关节评分标准进行评估:优18例,良5例,可2例。结论对于桡骨远端不稳定骨折,采用掌侧入路斜T形钢板内固定辅以植骨,既能使骨折复位、固定满意,又有利于术后早期手和腕部的功能康复锻炼,是治疗不稳定性桡骨远端骨折的有效方法。     

影响桡骨远端C型骨折内固定术后疗效的临床相关因素分析

目的 探讨影响桡骨远端c型骨折行切开复位内固定术后腕关节功能疗效的主要临床相关因素.方法 回顾性分析2001年1月至2007年10月行切开复位内固定术的桡骨远端C型骨折患者的临床资料,以腕关节功能评分为结局指标,对术后疗效进行随访评定.采用非条件Logistic回归模型对年龄、性别、待手术时间、C型骨折类型、内固定物等因素与腕关节功能疗效的相关性进行分析.结果 本研究共纳入56例患者,随访时间3.1～29.2个月(平均6.3个月).术后腕关节功能Gartland和Werley评分:优24例,良26例,可3例,差3例,优良率为89.29%.Logistic回归分析结果显示,年龄<65岁术后疗效优于年龄≥65岁(OR=4.64;95%CI:1.48～14.54;P=0.009)、尽早手术治疗(13 d内)利于术后腕关节功能恢复(OR=9.00;95%17 CI:72～46.99;P=0.009)、锁定加压钢板(LCP)内固定术后疗效优于普通"T"型钢板(OR=3.33;95% CI:1.10～10.12;P=0.034).结论 老龄(≥65岁)及延迟手术(≥13 d)是桡骨远端C型骨折内固定术后疗效的影响因素;运用LCP治疗累及关节面的桡骨远端C型骨折,手术疗效优于普通"T"型钢板.     

Winkelstabile, volare Plattenosteosynthese komplexer artikulärer Frakturen am distalen Radius

Fractures of the distal radius represent one of the most common fractures and have high socioeconomic relevance. Using the volar approach to avoid the soft tissue problems associated with dorsal plating, we treated a consecutive series of 49 displaced intra-articular distal radius fractures with a new fixed-angle internal fixation device. According to the AO classification, there were 21 C1, 19 C2, and nine C3 fractures. A retrospective study was carried out to obtain the functional results after open reduction and plate osteosynthesis. Loss of correction between postoperative and follow-up radiography was 1 degrees in volar tilt and radial inclination. The radial shortening was 1 mm. Wrist motion at final follow-up examination had recovered to an average of 80% of that at the normal, contralateral site. Overall outcome according to the Gartland and Werley scales showed 35% excellent, 50% good, and 15% fair results. Using the Martini score, we obtained 85% excellent and good results. The DASH score represented high subjective satisfaction.     

Fragment-specific fracture fixation and double-column plating of unstable distal radial fractures using AO mini-fragment implants and Kirschner wires

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of AO mini-fragment implants and 1.25-mm Kirschner wires using fragment-specific fracture fixation and double-column plating for displaced or unstable distal radial fractures. METHODS: Design: prospective and consecutive. SETTING: level II trauma hospital. PARTICIPANTS: 28 people with 30 fractures and an average follow-up of 21.1 (range 12-41) months, treated with fragment-specific fracture fixation. Outcome measurements: anatomical assessment using anteroposterior and lateral radiographs, graded according to Sarmiento's modification of Lidstrom's scoring system. CLINICAL OUTCOME ASSESSMENT: DASH and Modified Gartland and Werley scores. RESULTS: There were 24 excellent and 6 good radiological results. Final mean grip strength was 83% of uninjured side, and mean wrist range of motion was 61 degrees dorsiflexion, 54 degrees palmar flexion, 85 degrees supination and 83 degrees pronation. Gartland and Werley's demerit point system revealed 13 (43%) excellent, 12 (40%) good, 5 (17%) fair and no poor results. The mean DASH score was 18, with a standard deviation of +/-18. CONCLUSION: This fixation method is a reliable and low-cost alternative with good clinical and anatomical results, particularly useful in open reduction and internal fixation of comminuted intra-articular distal radial fractures.     

Surgical treatment of distal radius fractures with an angle fixed bar palmar plating system: a single center study of 102 patients over a 2-year period

Introduction Most fractures of the distal radius can be treated by conservative means; however, unstable distal radius fractures (DRFs) require surgical fixation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate functional and radiographic results of DRFs treated with a palmar plating system regarding patient’s quality of life.Methods This study reports a total number of 104 DRFs in 102 patients, operatively treated, over a 2-year period with a mean follow up time of 15.6 ± 7.2 months The patient’s average age was 59.9 ± 18.0 years. The results were evaluated according to the scores of Gartland and Werley, Castaing and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) outcome questionnaire.Results Ninety-three patients were evaluated at final examination. Excellent and good results were achieved for 92 (98.9%) patients according to score of Gartland and Werley and for 86 (92.5%) patients regarding the scoring system of Castaing. The DASH outcome questionnaire averaged 8.0 ± 13.7 points.Interpretation This study shows, in a representative number of cases, that palmar plating of unstable fractures of the distal radius is a safe and effective treatment modality. Early surgical treatment results in optimal outcome regarding patient’s quality of life.     

Retrospective comparison of external fixation versus volar locking plate in the treatment of unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures

The aim of this study is to compare the radiological and functional outcomes of open reduction and volar locking plates versus external fixation (EF) in the treatment of unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures. In this retrospective comparative study, 69 of 80 patients who underwent an operation for AO/ASIF C1, C2 and C3 distal radius fractures were assessed. Functional evaluation was performed using the Gartland–Werley scoring system and the PRWE scale, and wrist range of motion and grip strength was also measured. For the radiological assessment, radial inclination, volar tilt, radial length, ulnar variance, and articular step-off were compared. The range of movement was better for all parameters in the volar plate group, but only wrist flexion and pronation range differed significantly between the groups (p = 0.037 and p = 0.014, respectively). With the exception of better subjective functional results in the volar plate group, the differences were not significant. With respect to radiological evaluation, all parameters were better in the volar plate group, but only radial inclination and articular step-off were significantly better (p = 0.018 and p = 0.029, respectively). In the volar plate group, two patients had carpal tunnel syndrome and one patient had regional pain syndrome. In the external fixator group, six patients had superficial pin tract infection, two patients had sensory branch injury, and four patients had regional pain syndrome. Volar locking plate fixation appeared as a dependable method for the treatment of intra-articular distal radius, with lower complication rates. On the other hand, EF remains a suitable surgical alternative for these fractures, with easy application and acceptable results.     

Volar versus dorsal plating in the management of intra-articular distal radius fractures

PURPOSE: To compare the complications and functional and radiographic outcomes of volar and dorsal plating of intra-articular distal radius fractures. METHODS: This retrospective review included 34 patients found by searching a database of 350 patients treated for distal radius fractures. Inclusion criteria were (1) at least 1 year of follow-up data and (2) open reduction and internal fixation of a multifragmentary fragment intra-articular distal radius fracture with either a nonlocking volar or dorsal plate. Twenty patients were treated with a dorsal plate and 14 patients were treated with a volar nonlocking plate. Objective and subjective outcome parameters were compared between the 2 groups. Objective evaluations included wrist range of motion, grip strength, and preoperative and postoperative radiographic parameters (radial inclination, palmar tilt, ulnar variance, fracture pattern). Subjective evaluations were performed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire score and the Gartland and Werley score. RESULTS: Volar plating resulted in a significantly better Gartland-Werley score compared with dorsal plating. There were no significant differences in the DASH score.Volar collapse was documented in 5 of the 20 patients in the dorsal plating group, which resulted in a mild loss of pronation compared with the volar plating group. No collapse occurred in the volar plating group. In addition the difference in the percentage of wrist range of motion compared with the contralateral wrist was not significant. Dorsal plating was associated with a ruptured extensor indicis tendon in 1 patient; secondary surgical procedures were required in 4 patients (tenolyses and radial styloidectomy). Volar plating was associated with median nerve neuropathy in 2 patients and intersection syndrome in one. CONCLUSIONS: Although both groups of patients had similar DASH scores the functional outcome in terms of Gartland and Werley scores was better in the volar plating group. In addition there was a higher rate of volar collapse and late complications in the dorsal plating group compared with the volar plating group. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level III.     

外固定支架结合克氏针内固定治疗儿童A2型桡骨远端骨折

目的探讨采用外固定支架结合克氏针内固定治疗儿童A2型桡骨远端骨折的治疗方法及临床疗效。方法自2008年9月～2011年3月采用外固定支架结合克氏针内固定治疗儿童23-A2型桡骨远端骨折共18例,术后随访,在随访中根据改良Gartland和Werley功能评分系统标准进行评分以观察疗效。结果 18例桡骨远端骨折均愈合,临床愈合时间为9.0～13.0周,平均11.3周。18例均获得随访,随访13.0～42.0个月,平均24.6个月,在最终的随访中根据改良Gartland和Werley功能评分系统评分0～2分10例,3～8分8例,优良率为100%。结论对于年少的儿童桡骨远端A2型骨折患者,采用采用外固定支架结合克氏针内固定治疗具有手术时间短、术后骨折愈合快、术后并发症少等优点,值得在临床工作中进一步推广运用。     

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