A prospective study of surgical management of distal end radius fractures using volar rim variable angle locking plates

Abstract

Background: To assess the clinical and functional outcome of surgically treated distal radius fractures specially involving volar rim fixed with Volar Rim Variable Angle Locking Plates. Objectives: To evaluate the radiological union in fractures of distal radius fixed with Volar Rim Variable Angle Locking Plates .To evaluate clinical and functional outcome associated with this treatment modality. To study the complications associated with this treatment. Materials and Methods: 20 cases of distal end radius fractures surgically treated with Volar Rim Variable Angle Locking Plate according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, all patients followed up for a period of 1 year and results assessed with using the Demerit point system of Gartland and Werley. Results: In our study mean duration of complete union was 11 weeks which is comparable with other similar studies. We have achieved excellent results in 65% of cases, good in 20% of cases, fair in 10% and poor results in 5% of cases. Complications like stitch abscess, reduced range of motion, complex regional pain syndrome seen in 4 (20%) of cases. Conclusion: Volar Rim Variable Angle Locking Plate gives an adequate buttress of the volar radius distal to volar projection of the lunate facet and do not interfere with wrist mobility. Volar rim plate in distal radius fractures provide good to excellent results and are effective in the correction and maintainance of distal radius anatomy.