Credibility of locking plate in treatment of distal end radius fractures with intra articular extension

Abstract

Background: The management of distal end radius has undergone an extraordinary evolution over the preceding twenty years. The technical advance of palmar locking plating has again changed the management of this fracture in a real and seemingly permanent way. Perhaps most importantly it is becoming increasingly apparent that operative intervention needs to be customized to the patient, fracture and expertise of the surgeon. Materials and Methods: The study is hospital based prospective study centered in R.L. Jalappa Hospital from November 2013 to April 2015 between which thirty patient patients with intra articular distal radius fractures are treated with locking compression plate and screws. Results: Patients were regularly followed-up post-operatively. Thirty cases were available for follow up. Excellent results were seen in 20 patients, good results in 5 patients, fair results in 3 patients and poor results in 2 patients. Conclusion: Open reduction and internal fixation with locking compression plate and screws gives better functional and anatomical results in intra articular distal radius fractures. The successful use of locking compression plate for intra articular distal radius fractures requires careful assessment of fracture pattern, appropriate patient selection, meticulous surgical techniques, appropriate choice of fixation, screw size, judicious augmentation with internal fixation, careful post-operative monitoring and aggressive early institution of rehabilitation. The final functional result of treatment not only depends of on anatomical reduction but also depends on surrounding soft tissue injuries and early mobilization.