Comparison of outcome of extra articular lower end radius fracture with percutaneous pinning and volar locking plate

Abstract

Background: As fractures of the distal radius are the most common fractures of the upper extremity with no clear guidelines for mode of intervention it was decided to compare two of the most common methods of treatment. The aim of this study was to review a group of patients sustaining extra articular lower end radius fracture treated with percutaneous wiring and volar plating and compare their functional outcome at a significant follow up time. Methods: A prospective study was conducted at tertiary care center. A sample of 45 patients who had a displaced extra articular distal radius fracture and were subjected to treatment with either a plate (n =24) or k wiring (n =21). Outcome assessments were conducted at 6 months. Outcomes were measured on the basis of scores on the DASH questionnaire, wrist range of motion, and radiographic parameters. Results: Patients in the plate group had significantly better DASH scores (p=0.0431) and range of motion at six months compared with patients in the k wiring group. Collapse in radial length was observed in 2 patients with percutaneous wiring which led to suboptimal range of motion and increased DASH scores. Significance arc of motion at 6months in dorsiflexion and palmar flexion were p=0.0038 and when compared with opposite limb were significant in all three planes p=0.0217, p=0.0126 and p=0.0029. Conclusions: Based on our observation we found that treatment of dorsally displaced, unstable extra articular radius fractures across all age groups, volar-locked plates achieve a superior radiological and functional outcome with minimal complications.