Immediate mobilization of distal radius fractures stabilized by volar locking plate results in a better short-term outcome than a five week immobilization: A prospective randomized trial.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of immediate (first day after surgery) mobilization compared to standard five weeks cast immobilization on the functional outcome after volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures.

Design: Prospective randomized parallel group comparative trial.

Setting: Trauma Hospital, Austria.

Biomechanical considerations on a CT-based treatment-oriented classification in radius fractures.

A wide range of different classifications exist for distal radius fractures (DRF). Most of them are based on plane X-rays and do not give us any information on how to treat these fractures. A biomechanical understanding of the mechanical forces underlying each fracture type is important to treat each injury specifically and ensure the optimal choice for stabilization.

Rehabilitation after distal radius fractures: is there a need for immobilization and physiotherapy?

Although the literature generally agrees that displaced distal radius fractures require surgery, no single consensus exists concerning the length of immobilization and type of post-operative physiotherapeutic rehabilitation program. Palmar locking plate fixation represents a very stable fixation of the distal radius, and was assessed biomechanically in various studies. Surprisingly, most authors report additional immobilization after plate fixation.

Indications, surgical approach, reduction, and stabilization techniques of distal radius fractures.

Distal Radius fractures (DRF) are one of the most common injuries in the upper extremity and incidence is expected to rise due to a growing elderly population. The complex decision to treat patients operatively or conservatively depends on a large variety of parameters which have to be considered. No unanimous consensus has been reached yet, which operative approach and fixation technique would produce the best postoperative functional results with lowest complication rates.

Complications after operatively treated distal radius fractures.

In the recent years, treatment of distal radius fractures (DRF) has advanced considerably. Surgical fixation with palmar angular stable plate has gained popularity, due to a reported lower complication rate when compared to dorsal fixation. The type of trauma or injury, surgical procedure and impaired bone quality are all contributors to complications in DRF.