Plate osteosynthesis for unstable distal radius fracture: A prospective, randomized study

Abstract

Fractures of the distal radius are the most frequent fractures encounted by orthopaedic trauma surgeons accounting for 17.5% of all adult fractures. Although closed reduction with cast immobilization remains a reliable standard method of treatment for stable extra articular fractures and minimally displaced articular injuries, similar management for unstable articular disruption is prone for failure. The aim of our study was to evaluates the functional outcome of open reduction and plate fixation in the treatment of fracture distal end radius. This is a prospective study in which eighty (80) consecutives cases of fracture of distal radius, aged 18-70 years are taken into account. Patient were operated by volar distal radius locking plate and functional outcome assessed by demerit-point system of Gartland and Werley score. Final functional outcome in our study, 60 patients (75%) had excellent result, 13 had (16%) had good results, 5 patient (6%) had fair and 2(3%) had poor results. To conclude plate osteosynthesis is an excellent method in the treatment of distal radius fracture and functional outcome.