A prospective study on clinical and functional outcome of fracture distal end radius managed by volar plate

Abstract

Introduction: Fracture of distal end radius are one of the most common skeletal injuries encountered in the orthopaedic practice. There are various modalities of treatment but plating allows secure internal fixation with resultant early return of wrist function by directly restoring the anatomy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and functional outcome of the surgical management of intra-articular fractures of distal radius by ORIF with volar plate. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective study in which 25 patients with intra-articular distal radius fracture were managed primarily by ORIF with volar plate whose screws were multidirectional. The clinical and functional outcome was assessed using Gartland and Werley score, and Mayo Wrist score respectively.Results: The study included 25 patients, 19 males and 6 females aged from 21 to 70 years with mean of 38 years. Ulnar styloid fracture was present in 6 patients and DRUJ instability was present in 4 patients. The average duration of follow-up was 7 months ranged from 1-15 months. Using Gartland and Werley 92% had excellent to good result while 79% had excellent to good functional outcome according to Mayo score.Conclusions: Early Primary fixation of the distal radius fractures is important for good functional outcome and to avoid complication of prolonged immobilization, which facilitates early return to regular activities.