FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF INTRAARTICULAR DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURE TREATED WITH OPEN REDUCTION AND INTERNAL FIXATION WITH DORSAL PLATE

Abstract

Background: Distal radius fractures are among the most common fractures and there is considerable disparity among surgeons regarding the best way to treat these patients. Intraarticular fractures are treated with open reduction and internal fixation with either dorsal or volar plates. Dorsal plating is not much popular due to its reported complications of extensor tendon irritation and rupture. We conducted this study to assess the functional outcome of dorsal plating in intraarticular distal radius fractures.

Methods: A clinical prospective observational study was conducted at Kathmandu Medical College,Sinamangal. A total of 26 patients (male: 14; female: 12) of intraarticular distal radius fractures were enrolled and underwent open reduction and internal fixation using the dorsal plate. The functional outcome of dorsal plating was measured at 3 weeks,3 months and 6 months follow up.

Results: All patients achieved a functional range of motion, with greater than 50 degrees of wrist flexion, 25 degrees of wrist extension, and 60 degree arc of pronation and supination. The functional outcome measured was found to be good to excellent with a mean Mayo Wrist score of 89.23(75-100) and Quick Dash-9 score of 9.20(2.75 to 22). There were 3 cases of extensor tendon irritation, which completely resolved and no cases of extensor tendon irritation at final follow up.

Conclusions: Dorsal plating is a safe and effective way of treating intra articular distal radius fracture with good functional outcome.