J Korean Fract Soc.  2011 Apr;24(2):151-155. 10.12671/jkfs.2011.24.2.151.

2.4 mm Volar Locking Compression Plate for Treatment of Unstable Distal Radius Fractures

• Kim SJ
• Cho CH

• KMID: 2183857
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12671/jkfs.2011.24.2.151

Abstract

PURPOSE
To evaluate outcomes 2.4 mm volar locking compression plate for treatment of unstable distal radius fractures.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We retrospectively analyzed the results in 22 cases, which were treated by 2.4 mm volar locking compression plate. We evaluated the clinical results according to the Mayo wrist performance scoring system and radiographic results.
RESULTS
All cases had bony union. The mean Mayo wrist performance score was 85.23. Between preoperative and immediate postoperative radiographic measurements, the mean radial length was improved from 6.04 mm to 9.68 mm, radial inclination from 15.61degrees to 19.61degrees, volar tilt from -13.73degrees to 7.66degrees and intraarticular step-off from 0.79 mm to 0.33 mm (p<0.05). Between immediate postoperative and latest follow-up radiographic measurements, the mean loss of radial length measured 0.86 mm, radial inclination 0.41degrees, volar tilt 0.54degrees and intraarticular step-off 0.02 mm (p>0.05). Postoperative complication included that flexor pollicis longus and 2nd flexor digitorum profundus were ruptured in 1 case.
CONCLUSION
Treatment of unstable distal radius fractures using a 2.4 mm volar locking compression plate showed satisfactory outcomes. It is a good option to obtain stable fixation without significant loss of reduction.

Keyword

Distal radius; Unstable fracture; 2.4 mm locking compression plate; Volar approach

MeSH Terms

Follow-Up Studies
Postoperative Complications
Radius
Radius Fractures
Retrospective Studies
Wrist

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1 68-year-old woman with unstable distal radius fracture was treated by open reduction and internal fixation with 2.4 mm locking compression plate. (A) Preoperative radiographs show ustable distal radius fracture with dorsal comminution (AO type A2). (B) Immediate postoperative radiographs show successful reduction and fixation. (C) Radiographs at 12 months postoperatively show no significant loss of reduction.

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