Comparison of Radial Styloid Fracture Fixation Using a Radial Plate Versus a Cannulated Screw

Radial styloid fractures may occur in isolation or as part of complex intra-articular distal radius injuries. Fixation can be achieved using either a cannulated screw or a radial plate. This study aimed to compare these two fixation techniques with respect to surgical time, fracture union, and postoperative complications in patients with isolated radial styloid fractures, thereby eliminating confounding factors related to associated injuries.

Between 2024 and 2025, a retrospective study was conducted involving 20 patients (mean age, 37.6 ± 6.9 years) with isolated radial styloid fractures. Patients were assigned to undergo open reduction and internal fixation using either a cannulated screw (group A, n = 10) or a radial plate (group B, n = 10). All patients were followed for 6 months. The primary outcomes included surgical time, fracture union, and postoperative complications.

Group A demonstrated a markedly shorter surgical time than group B (34.4 ± 2.4 minutes vs 50.6 ± 3.9 minutes; P < 0.05) and achieved faster fracture union (6.7 ± 0.7 weeks vs 7.6 ± 1.0 weeks; P < 0.05). Temporary extensor tendinitis and implant irritation occurred slightly more frequently in group B (10% vs 0%), although this difference was not statistically significant. The incidence of transient superficial radial neuritis was similar between the groups (10%).

Cannulated screw fixation for isolated radial styloid fractures is a reliable and efficient alternative to radial plate fixation. It provides shorter surgical time, earlier fracture union, and comparable complication rates while minimizing soft-tissue dissection.