Title: Management of Intra Articular Fractures of Distal Radius with Volar Locking Compression Plate – Midterm Outcome Analysis
Authors: Dr Sharath Kumar, Dr Dhanpal Singh, Dr A. Manikandarajan M., Gowthaman. N
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v6i10.218
Abstract
Introduction: Intra articular fractures of distal radius remains one of the most challenging fractures treated by orthopaedic surgeons. The aim of this study is to analyse the radiological as well as functional outcome in intra articular fractures of distal radius treated with volar locked compression plate.
Aim of the Study: The aim of this study is to analyse the radiological as well as functional outcome in intra articular fractures of distal radius treated with volar locked compression plate.
Materials and Methods: From May 2016 to Dec 2017, consecutive patients with intra articular fractures of the distal radius were included in our study. All subjects were recruited, operated, and assessed at Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RMMCH, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamilnadu. The patients were followed for a minimum period of 6 months. The results were evaluated using DASH scoring system Sarmiento’s modification of Lindstorm’s crtiria for radiological outcome for wrist.
Results: Of the twenty five wrists operated, according to DASH scoring system, 19 cases were males and 6 cases were females of which 15 cases were right and 10 cases were left wrists, the most commonest mode of trauma being RTA accounting for 80% of cases, the average time for surgery was 5 days from the date of admission, a below elbow slab was applied on the day of admission till surgery. .Excellent to Good results were obtained in 24 wrists i.e. 96%. Fair results were obtained in one (4%). None of the patient results. The one patient showing fair result had wrist stiffness mainly attributable to his non compliance to Physiotherapy. No major complication was noted in our study.
Conclusion: Volar locking compression plate is the implant of choice in Comminuted Intraarticular distal radius Fractures. Use of locked volar plate predictably yields better patient reported outcome as per DASH scoring system and Sarmiento’s modification of Lidstorm’s crtiria for radiological outcome and allows earlier range of wrist motion which yields accelerated return of function necessary for our Indian population.
Keywords: Volar locking compression plate, volar plate, wrist and fracture fixation.
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