Management of Distal Radius Fractures: Comparison of Three Methods

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Radiology

Background:

• Distal radius fractures are common extremity injuries.
• Surgical intervention is indicated for fractures with significant displacement or angulation.
• Optimal surgical technique remains debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of three surgical methods for distal radius fractures: volar locking plate (VLP), external fixation (EF), and Kirschner wire (K-wire).

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional analysis of 44 patients with distal radius fractures treated between 2011 and 2013.
• Fractures classified using AO and Frykman systems.
• Radiographic parameters (radial inclination, volar tilt, radial length, ulnar variance) assessed post-operatively.
• Functional outcomes evaluated using Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and MAYO scales.

Main Results:

• All 44 patients achieved fracture healing with satisfactory reduction.
• No significant differences in DASH or MAYO scores were observed between VLP, K-wire, and EF groups.
• Radiographic parameters were similar across all treatment modalities.
• Higher DASH scores were noted in AO23A fracture types compared to AO23B and AO23C types.

Conclusions:

• Volar locking plates, external fixation, and Kirschner wires are effective surgical options for distal radius fractures.
• All methods provide adequate fixation and satisfactory results.
• Treatment choice should be individualized based on fracture characteristics and patient factors.