A Comparative Study between Longitudinal and “T” Incisions for Dorsal Plating of the Distal Radius

Abstract

A retrospective review of 24 patients with dorsal incisions for open reduction and internal fixation of Frykman VII/VIII distal radius fractures using a dorsal plate was performed. Half of them had a longitudinal incision while the other half had a T-shaped incision. No difference in the healing properties or wound morbidity could be demonstrated between the two groups. However, the T incision provided improved exposure of the distal radius and patient satisfaction with its cosmetic result was superior. The horizontal limb was well camouflaged within the transverse skin crease on the dorsal aspect of the wrist. The vertical limb did not extend into the dorsum of the hand and could, therefore, be hidden by appropriate clothing.

Isolated Wedge Osteotomy of the Ulna for Mild Madelung’s Deformity

“…17 Patients were asked to grade their wrists with a score between 0 and 10, based on the following factors: (a) length of the scar, (b) prominence of the radial head, (c) interference with activities of daily living, (d) how noticeable the deformity was to them, and (e) how noticeable the deformity was to others. Each item is rated as 0 (poor), 1 (medium), or 2 (good).…”

Cincinnati Incision Approach for Posterior Ankle and Calcaneal Pathology: Technique Tip

“…From the cosmetic point of view, the vertical, longitudinal incisions are 90 degrees to the skin crest, and therefore, will likely form unsightly scars. 5 Also, one cannot always get adequate exposure around the Achilles through a unilateral longitudinal incision, and then, one has to be made on the other side. These longitudinal incisions can at times cause problematic scars which interfere with the ability to wear normal shoes.…”

“…The longitudinal incisions, which cross the Langer lines, may result in formation of wide, ugly scars (Figure 1B). 5…”

Unsere bevorzugten Zugänge zum distalen Radius

“…neben dem palmaren zusätzlichen dorsalen Zugang[22,23]. Während viele angloamerikanische Kollegen den dorsalen Zugang gerade oder T-förmig anlegen und am Radiokarpalgelenk enden lassen[24], präferieren wir eine leicht S-förmig geschwungene Inzi-sion von der Mitte des 3. Mittelhandknochens auf den Radius[25].…”