Perforation of the third extensor compartment by the drill bit during palmar plating of the distal radius.

The frequency of penetration into the third extensor compartment when drilling the distal screw holes was assessed for four different palmar distal radius plates in 160 cadaver forearms. Penetration into this compartment occurred in 43%. Different plates had different penetration rates: 3.5 LCP four-hole locking T-plate: 20%, 3.5 LCP three-hole locking plate: 42.5%, 2.4 palmar LCP standard plate and the 2.4 palmar LCP buttress plate: 55%. When using a palmar plate on the distal radius, the surgeon risks penetrating into the third extensor compartment.