Outcome after treatment of distal radius fractures in the elderly using the IlluminOss^® System

Distal radius fractures are very common and account for approximately 17% of all fractures treated. Multiple treatment methods are available to treat these fractures, both operative and nonoperative. This study aimed at evaluating the functional and clinical outcomes after treatment of distal radius fractures with the IlluminOss^® System in adult patients.

A retrospective case series was performed in a single-level two-trauma center. All consecutive adult patients with a distal radius fracture, treated with the IlluminOss^® System between 01 August 2012 and 15 August 2015, were included in this study. Baseline patient characteristics and clinical data were retrospectively extracted from the medical records. Radial inclination, volar/dorsal tilt, ulnar variance, and radial length were measured on the latest available standard radiographs. In addition, patients were prospectively subjected to physical examination and were asked to complete the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation, and Short Form-36 questionnaires.

Twenty-six patients with 31 distal radius fractures were included. The median age at time of trauma was 77 years and 96% were females. Five patients developed a total of seven complications. Due to persisting pain one reoperation was performed, removing a small prominent part of the implant. Both patient-reported outcome scores and radiographic results were good to excellent.

The IlluminOss^® System is a feasible option to treat distal radius fractures with seemingly good clinical and functional outcome. One out of seven complications required surgical intervention. These outcomes justify more detailed prospective research.