[Simultaneous management of multi-fragment distal radius fractures with palmar and dorsal approach]

Reconstruction of the articular anatomy can be extremely difficult in distal radius fractures with severe comminution of both the dorsal and palmar cortices. In these cases, neither open reduction using an unilateral approach nor closed reduction with ligamentotaxis and fixateur externe will be successful. Reconstruction of both the dorsal and palmar cortical column is necessary. Sixteen of nineteen patients with unstable bicolumnar distal radius fractures treated by a combined plate osteosynthesis were studied retrospectively. Follow-up time averaged 32.5 months (8 to 74). At the time of re-examination the average grip strength and range of motion were reduced by 30% compared with the uninjured side. The average DASH-score was 11.2 points. Radiographic measurements revealed a satisfactory restoration of the radius concerning length and form. There were no signs of higher graded arthrosis.