[Dorsally displaced intra-articular distal radius fractures treated by locked palmar plate. Technique and results]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results and complications of locked palmar plating in patients with articular fracture of the distal radius.

Twenty-two patients were reviewed retrospectively. The average age was 68 years. All fractures were classified as Type C according to the AO classification. Clinical and functional examination including range of motion, grip strength, pain and return to previous activities were assessed. Loss of radial height, radial inclination, palmar tilt and ulnar variance were evaluated with preoperative and postoperative radiographs.

At an average follow-up of 10 months, the range of motion was 124 degrees in flexion and extension and 178 degrees in pronation and supination. Grip strength was 80% of the opposite side. Fifteen patients were free of pain. Three patients suffered tenosynovitis of the extensor tendons. Radiographic measurements averaged 11 mm radial height, 21 degrees radial inclination, 4 degrees palmar tilt and 1 mm ulnar variance.

The result of this study showed that locked palmar plating of articular distal radius fractures is effective even in cases of metaphyseal comminution with a low rate of complications.