Fixation of unstable dorsally displaced distal radius fractures with a fixed angle plate provides sufficient stability with minimal loss of reduction. Nevertheless, very distal palmar plate position can interfere with the flexor tendon system, too long screws can penetrate the extensor compartments, and distal screws in comminuted fracture patterns can cut through the subchondral bone and penetrate into the radiocarpal joint. Mindful of these problems, we consider that the complex fracture pattern of an unstable distal radius fracture cannot be treated by a single plate system and approach.
At the twelve-month follow-up examination, the range of motion, the level of pain, and the PRWE and DASH scores were not different between the operative and nonoperative treatment groups. Patients in the operative treatment group had better grip strength through the entire time period. Achieving anatomical reconstruction did not convey any improvement in terms of the range of motion or the ability to perform daily living activities in our cohorts.
Radiographic results (dorsal tilt, radial inclination, and radial shortening) after unstable dorsally displaced DRFs are significantly better in patients treated by ORIF using a volar fixed-angle plate rather than those treated by cast immobilization (P < 0.05). At a mean follow-up time of 4 years and 7 months, the clinical outcomes of active range of motion, the PRWE, DASH, and Green and O'Brien scores do not differ between the 2 methods of treatment. The pain level was significantly less in the CAST group (P < 0.05), and this group experienced no complications. There was no difference between the subjective and functional outcomes for the surgical and the nonsurgical treatments in a cohort of patients older than 70 years. Unsatisfactory radiographic outcome in older patients does not necessarily translate into unsatisfactory functional outcome. Nonoperative treatment may be the preferred method of treatment in this age group.
Internal screw fixation of nondisplaced scaphoid fractures had a shorter time to bony union and the patients returned earlier to work compared with cast immobilisation. Although it is assumed that operative treatment is more expensive, in this study the cost was not found to be higher.
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