Pronator Quadratus Muscle Flap for Prevention of Flexor Tendon Rupture after Distal Radius Volar Plating.

Background: Flexor tendon rupture is a serious but rare complication that can occur after volar plating of distal radius fractures. This study aims to introduce a novel surgical technique that uses a pronator quadratus (PQ) muscle flap transposition to protect the flexor tendons from rupture or irritation and evaluate its outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on 204 patients with unstable distal radius fractures who underwent a standard volar flexor carpi radialis approach with extended release of the PQ muscle during exposure.