Efficiency of fragment specific fixation plates in the treatment of comminuted distal radial fractures.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical, radiologic and functional outcome of treating comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures with fragment specific fixation.

Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of 25 unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures (type C2 AO) that had fragment specific fixation done in the orthopaedic department of the Hamad General Hospital (level 1 trauma center) over three years (2010-2013), with a follow up of one year post-operatively. Pre-operative X-rays (wrist parameters) were compared to post-operative X-rays at different time points (i.e. 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, etc.). Range of motion and grip strength were recorded at different time points until the final follow up evaluation. All the data has been obtained from patients' charts (including outpatient and occupational therapy rehabilitation range of motion data) after final approval from the Hamad Corporation medical research center/Ethics committee.

Results: There were 25 patients ranging in age from 24 to 58 years with 13 patients above 35 years (52%) and 12 patients below 35 years (48%). There were 22 males (88%) and 3 females (12%) with different mechanisms of injury such as falling from height (average 2 metres), which was the most common with 13 patients (52%), and most were work related. Left wrist was more common than right wrist injuries and mostly in the non-dominant hand with 14 patients (56%). There was an obvious improvement between pre and post-operative wrist parameters at different time points, but P-values were not significant; supination and pronation at six weeks of follow up showed significant values (p = 0.04 & 0.03, respectively). Grip strength improved about 76% compared to the normal side.

Conclusions: Fragment specific fixation is a reasonable alternative for treating intra-articular distal radius fractures. At final follow up evaluations, results showed a better clinical, radiological and functional outcome. Stable fixation allowed starting active and passive motion of the wrist without compromising post-operative alignment.