A Novel Method for Treating Distal Radius Diaphyseal Metaphyseal Junction Fracture in Children

BACKGROUND The treatment of distal radius diaphyseal metaphyseal junction (DMJ) fracture in children is a clinical problem; several treatments are available, but none are very effective. Therefore, this study aimed to report a novel method for treating this fracture using limited open reduction and transepiphyseal intramedullary fixation with Kirschner wire. MATERIAL AND METHODS From January 2018 to December 2019, a total of 15 children (13 boys and 2 girls) with distal radius DMJ fractures with a mean age of 10 years (range: 6-14 years) were included in the study. The operation time, incision length, and X-ray radiation exposure were precisely recorded. All children were followed up regularly. At the final follow-up, clinical outcomes were evaluated according to Price criteria, and complications were recorded. RESULTS The mean operation time of the 15 children was 21.4 min, and the mean incision length was 1.9 cm. The intraoperative X-ray was performed 3.7 times on average. The mean radiographic union of fracture was 4.7 weeks, and the mean time to remove the Kirschner wire was 4.8 weeks for radial instrumentation and 4.7 months for ulnar instrumentation. According to the Price grading evaluation system, clinical outcome was excellent in 14 cases and good in 1 case. Moreover, there were no major complications related to loss of reduction, malunion, nonunion, and physeal arrest of the distal radius. CONCLUSIONS Limited open reduction and transepiphyseal intramedullary fixation with Kirschner wire are effective for treating distal radius DMJ fracture in children, which has the advantages of simple surgical procedures, short operation time, small incision, and less radiation exposure, making it an excellent choice for treating this fracture.