Functional outcome of fixation of unstable distal end radius fracture with volar buttress plating, A prospective study

Abstract

Background: Distal end of radius fracture accounts for 17% of all fractures in adults. The primary goal of treatment is to return the patient to his or her pre fracture functional status and to independent to carry out there daily needs. There are multiple options for distal end radius treatment, CRIF with K wire / external fixator, But there are disadvantages like malunion, pin tract infection, which may results in poor range of movement. Hence ORIF with volar plating is commonly done for unstable distal end radius. Materials and methods: In this study 30 patients with age above 18 years with distal end radius fractures treated with ORIF with volar plating. same post operative protocol, complications of surgery Intra operative and post operative were observed, functional outcome of all patients were recorded at regular follow up assessed with modified Gartlad & Werley’s wrist grading system.Results: In ORIF with volar plating, we noted patient with poor outcome of 10%, fair outcome of 23.33%, good outcome of 50% and excellent outcome of 16.67% at the end of 6 months. With mean range of movement Flexion =66.50, Dorsiflexion = 69.830, Radial deviation =18.830, Ulnar deviation =27.170, Pronation 700, Supination =72.670 and patient with satisfactory ROM with no complications. Conclusion: ORIF with volar plating is a successful procedure for distal end radius fractures. Early return to pre morbid level of activity and functions occurs very swiftly.