Treatment Effectiveness of Volar Plates in Distal Radius Dorsal Rim Fractures

Objective  To assess the efficacy of distal radius volar plates in cases involving dorsal fragments at the Ulnar Corner (UC) and Lister Tubercle (LT). Methods  A retrospective study that included patients with distal radius fractures (DRFs) featuring UC and LT dorsal fragments treated with volar plates. The exclusion criteria comprised lunate facet fractures, UC fragment ratio below 25%, and patients treated with dorsal plates. Radiographic and tomographic measurements included radial length (RL), radial inclination (RI), ulnar variance (UV), palmar tilt (PT), fragment areas, UC fragment ratio, and displacement. The scores on the Gartland Werley (GW) classification and on the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, as well as grip strength, and range of motion (ROM), were assessed. Results  The study involved 17 male and 5 female subjects (mean age: 39.7 ± 10.7 years). The UC and LT fragments displayed mean areas of 1.6 ± 0.7cm ² and UC fragment ratio of 0.4 ± 0.1. The fixation rates for UC and LT fragments were of 18.2% and 31.8% respectively. Improved RI, UV, and PT were noted postoperatively. The mean GW and DASH scores were of 2.1 ± 2.0 and 4.3 ± 3.2 respectively. Grip strength on the operated side was of 89.5 ± 9.8% of the healthy side, and at least 90.9% of the patients achieved adequate ROM. Conclusion  While volar plates are the standard treatment for intra-articular DRFs, displaced dorsal fragments can impact the outcomes. Mini dorsal incisions may aid in the fixation of UC fragments that are challenging to secure with volar plates, preserving joint health.