Clinical results of volar locking plate fixation in radius distal fractures

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the results of 41 surgically treated radius distal fracture patients. Average follow-up time was 9.8months (6-19) and mean age was 44.04 (20-81). All patients treated surgically with volar locking plate between the dates October2010 and November 2018.Material and Methods: There were 11 type A2 (26%), 10 type C2 (24%), 4 type A3 (9%), 3 type B1 (7%), 3 type B3 (8%), 6 type C3(14%) and 4 type C1 (9%) fractures, respectively according to the AO Classification System. Stewart’s radiological criteria and rangeof motion were used in clinical and radiological evaluation. QuickDASH-T and Gartland-Werley scores were used for functionalassessment.Results: Twenty-three patients (56%) had excellent, 14 patients (34%) had good and 4 patients (9%), respectively had moderatefunctional scores according to Gartland-Werley scoring scale. Thirty-four patients (83%) were excellent and 7 patients (17%) weregood, respectively according to Stewart’s radiological criteria. Average QuickDASH-T score was 5.92 (0-22.7) and average GartlandWerley score was 3.26 (0-13). Two patients suffered reflex sympathetic dystrophy as a complication.Conclusion: Volar locking plating in distal radius fractures is a reliable treatment method with successful results with carefulpreoperative planning, attentive surgical approach and systematical rehabilitation. It should be considered as treatment of choicefor all but especially active and demanding patients.