[Volar plate fixation of distal radius fractures].

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate the results of volar locking and unlocking plate fixation of adult distal radius fractures.

METHODS

Thirty-four patients (14 female, 20 male, mean age: 48.5 +/- 17.9 years) who were treated for distal radius fractures were investigated retrospectively. The fractures were distributed as follows: 17.6% AO type B3, 11.8% AO type C2 and 70.6% AO type C3. The patients were evaluated clinically (Gartland and Werley score, visual analog scale (VAS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score) and radiographically (Stewart score).

RESULTS

The mean follow-up of patients was 24 +/- 16.3 months. According to the Gartland-Werley score, the results were excellent in 24.9%, good in 55.9%, moderate in 11.8% and poor in 2.9% of the patients. The mean VAS score was 0.5 +/- 1.1, and the mean DASH score was 26.1. According to the Stewart criteria, 44.1% of the patients were rated as excellent, 52.9% as good and 2.9% as moderate. Two patients had complex regional pain syndrome, one patient carpal tunnel syndrome and one patient tenosynovitis.

CONCLUSION

Volar plate fixation is a good and effective treatment for distal radius fractures. The plate should be inserted properly and physiotherapy should not be ignored.