A prospective study of surgical management of distal end radius fractures using variable angle locking compression plate

Abstract

Aim: To assess the clinical and functional outcome of surgically treated distal radius fractures with variable angle locking compression plate at SSIMS-RC, Davanagere during August 2016 TO June 2018. Objectives: 1.To evaluate the radiological union in fractures of distal radius fixed with variable angle LCP, 2. To evaluate clinical and functional outcome associated with this treatment modality, 3. to study the complications associated with this study. Materials and methods: 28 cases of distal radius fractures surgically treated with variable angle LCP according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, all patients followed up for a period of 1 year and results assessed with Gartland and Werely classification. Results: In our study mean duration of complete radiological union was 11weeks which is comparable with other studies. We have achieved excellent results in 66.6% of cases, good results in 23.3%, fair results10%, and no poor results. Complications like stitch abscess, reduced range of motion, complex regional pain syndrome seen in 6(20%) cases. Conclusion: The results are evidence that Variable angle locking plates allows effective anatomic realignment and early wrist mobilization. It is biomechanically superior due to closer joint interface placement and better screw placement in different directions. Variable angle locking compression plates in distal radius fractures provide good to excellent results and are effective in the correction and maintenance of distal radius anatomy.