Abstract:

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the functional and radiological results of intraarticular distal radius fractures which treated with volar locking plates. Methods: Twenty-eight patients (mean age 44.6; range 19-74) with intraarticular distal radius fracture were treated with volar locking plate. Of these 18 were type B, and 10 were type C. Mean follow-up was 19 months. Patients were evaluated with MAYO score, and DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) questionnaire. Shortening, radial inclination and palmar tilt were recorded. Uninjured wrist was used for comparison. Results: Union was achieved in all fractures. MAYO score revealed excellent results in 6 patients, good in 7 patients, satisfactory in 14 patients, and poor in 1 patients at the latest follow-up. The mean postoperative DASH score was 16.4 (range, 0-76). The average radial inclination loss was 0.9 degrees and the average palmar tilt loss was 6.9 degrees when compared to uninjured wrist. Active flexion was 56.3°, extension was 52.5°, supination was 74.2° and pronation was 70.7°. Extensor tenosynovitis was observed in four patients, flexor pollisis longus tenosynovitis in two, carpal tunnel syndrome in two, superficial infection in one, sudeck atrophy in one. Conclusion: Volar locking plates maintain adequate stability with satisfactory functional results in the treatment of intraarticular distal radius fractures. However, flexor and extensor tendon problems, entrapment of median nerve and reflex sympathetic dystrophy should be kept in mind which might be encountered. In case of tenosynivitis, if the union had been achieved the implants should be removed without delay.

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