Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for distal radius fractures with a palmar locking plate

Since 2006, we have been performing minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis with a palmar locking plate and without division of the pronator quadratus muscle for repairing distal radial fractures. The purpose of this study was to present the surgical technique we have developed and to retrospectively evaluate the clinical outcomes.

Twenty patients were treated with this technique between January and December 2007. The range of motion of the wrist and forearm, grip strength, and the quick disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand score were assessed at the latest follow-up examination, and postoperative complications were evaluated.

The average ranges of flexion and extension of the wrist were 55° and 60°, respectively. The average ranges of supination and pronation of the forearm were 88° and 86°, respectively. The average grip strength of the treated side was 71 % of that of the uninjured side. The average quick disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand score was 13.4 points. No patient had loss of fracture reduction, implant failure, deep infection, or tendon or nerve problems.

The small skin incisions of this technique are advantageous from the aesthetic viewpoint. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis is one of the options for the treatment of distal radial fractures.