Results of the treatment of distal radius fractures with a proprietary implant, the DRONes nail plate – preliminary report

Abstract

Introduction. Distal radius fractures are one of the most common bone injuries. Modern treatment methods are needed not only to reduce the time needed to heal, but also allow the wrist the full range of motion as soon as possible. The solution should provide stable bone fixation with the least possible damage to soft tissues, which will allow quick recovery of extremity function. The method meeting these criteria is intramedullary fixation. Aim of the study. To evaluate the treatment results of distal radius fractures with the DRONes® hybrid nail plate. Material and methods. The study group consists of patients with distal radius fracture treated with open reduction and intramedullary fixation. Patients aged 24 to 69 years (average 54 years) were operated on after a failed attempt to adjust the fracture using the closed reduction method. 40 distal fractures of the distal radius qualified for the following 5 types according to AO: 2 fractures -A2, 5 -A3, 8 -C1, 14 -C2, 11 -C3. Two weeks after the surgery, X-rays were performed to check the position of the bone fragments and implant. After a further 6-7 weeks, the union and wrist function were evaluated. Results. Bone union was achieved in all patients within 8-9 weeks, and the range of wrist mobility was only slightly limited. The most common complication was the neurapraxia of the superficial branch of the radial nerve disappearing after 6-8 weeks. Conclusions. Patients treated with the DRONes® hybrid nail plate achieve good functional results after 8-9 weeks and can return to work and their preinjury lifestyle. An additional advantage is the simple surgical technique.