Dorsal Approach for Dorsal Impaction Distal Radius Fracture-Visualization, Reduction, and Fixation Made Simple

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Skeletal Repair

Background:

• Distal radius fractures with dorsal articular impaction present significant reduction challenges.
• The standard volar approach may offer limited visualization for complex dorsal articular surface injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a surgical technique for open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fractures using a dorsal approach.
• To highlight technical pearls for improved visualization, reduction, and fixation in these specific fracture patterns.

Main Methods:

• Surgical technique video demonstration.
• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) via a dorsal approach.
• Focus on direct visualization and anatomical reduction of the articular surface.

Main Results:

• The dorsal approach facilitates direct visualization of the impacted dorsal articular surface.
• This approach allows for precise reduction of fracture fragments.
• Effective internal fixation can be achieved with optimal visualization.

Conclusions:

• A dorsal approach is a viable and advantageous technique for managing distal radius fractures with dorsal articular impaction.
• Direct visualization through a dorsal approach aids in achieving accurate reduction and stable fixation.
• This technique offers an alternative for complex distal radius fractures not easily managed with a volar approach.