Functional Outcomes Following Bridge Plate Fixation for Distal Radius Fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Trauma surgery
• Upper extremity reconstruction

Background:

• Distal radius fractures are common injuries.
• Various surgical techniques exist for fixation.
• Dorsal spanning bridge plate fixation is one such method.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functional outcomes of patients treated with dorsal spanning distraction bridge plate fixation for distal radius fractures.
• To assess wrist range of motion, grip strength, and patient-reported outcomes.
• To compare outcomes with the contralateral uninjured wrist.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of adult patients treated with dorsal bridge plates for distal radius fractures (2008-2012).
• Clinical follow-up included range of motion, grip strength, extension torque measurements, and validated questionnaires (Quick-DASH, PRWE).
• Outcomes were compared to the contralateral uninjured wrist and analyzed based on dominant vs. nondominant limb injury.

Main Results:

• Eighteen patients with comminuted, intra-articular fractures (AO 23.C3) were analyzed at a mean of 2.7 years post-removal.
• Significant decreases in wrist flexion, extension, and ulnar deviation were observed compared to the uninjured wrist.
• Grip strength was 86% and extension torque was 78% of the contralateral side; dominant wrists showed better recovery (95% grip, 96% extension) than non-dominant (79% grip, 65% extension).
• Mean Quick-DASH and PRWE scores were 16 and 14, respectively. Two cases of surgical site pain, no infections or tendon issues.

Conclusions:

• Dorsal spanning bridge plate fixation is a safe treatment for distal radius fractures with a low complication rate.
• Functional outcomes, including range of motion and strength, are generally good but show deficits compared to the uninjured contralateral wrist.
• Outcomes appear favorable, particularly for dominant wrist injuries, and are comparable to other established treatment modalities.