Indirect Coronal Reduction Technique Using a Volar Locking Plate in Distal Radius Fractures: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Distal radius fractures are common injuries requiring effective treatment.
• Achieving and maintaining anatomic reduction is crucial for optimal wrist function.
• Volar locking plates are widely used, but reduction techniques vary.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of an indirect coronal reduction technique for distal radius fractures.
• To assess anatomic alignment, surgical complications, and wrist range of motion.
• To demonstrate the reliability of this technique with volar locking plates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 17 distal radius fractures.
• Treatment using an indirect coronal reduction technique with volar locking plates.
• Review of anatomic alignment, complications, and wrist range of motion post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Near-anatomic restoration achieved: radial inclination (23.2°), radial height (11.8°), volar tilt (8.5°).
• Average coronal translation was 2.8 mm.
• Postoperative wrist motion (pronation, supination, flexion, extension) was within normal ranges at 36 weeks follow-up.
• No surgical technique or implant-related complications were reported.

Conclusions:

• The indirect coronal reduction technique with volar locking plates reliably restores distal radius fracture alignment.
• This technique leads to good functional outcomes with no reported complications.
• It represents a dependable surgical option for treating distal radius fractures.