Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis for Distal Radius Fractures: A Safe Technique with Reliable Clinical,...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Trauma surgery
• Skeletal reconstruction

Background:

• Distal radius fractures are common, accounting for one-sixth of emergency department fracture treatments.
• Traditional open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) involves extensive dissection.
• Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) aims to reduce surgical trauma and improve outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical outcomes of distal radius fractures treated with MIPO.
• To assess functional recovery, pain levels, and patient satisfaction.
• To compare MIPO outcomes with traditional surgical methods.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study of 34 patients with distal radius fractures treated via MIPO.
• Outcomes assessed at 6-9 months post-surgery.
• Evaluated parameters included pain (VAS), function (DASH, Mayo Wrist Score), aesthetics (POSAS), strength, range of motion, radiology, return-to-work time, and complications.

Main Results:

• Mean incision size was 2.67 cm.
• Restoration of range of motion and strength to 94-96% of the contralateral side.
• Excellent/good Modified Mayo Wrist Scores in 100% of patients, with low pain (VAS 0.24) and DASH scores (2.64).
• Optimal radiological fixation achieved in all cases.
• Mean return-to-work time of 28 days.
• One case of transient complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS); no major complications.

Conclusions:

• MIPO is a safe and effective technique for distal radius fractures.
• It yields reliable clinical, radiological, functional, and cosmetic outcomes.
• High patient satisfaction is achieved with MIPO for distal radius fractures.