Surgical treatment of fractures of the distal radius with plates: a comparison of palmar and dorsal plate position

Abstract

This study shows that the majority of patients with problem fractures of the distal radius can be successfully treated by internal fixation using the T-plate. The dorsal approach to the distal radius--in cases where dorsal plating is appropriate--will result in a better anatomical reduction and clinical outcome.

Results of Dorsal or Volar Plate Fixation of AO Type C3 Distal Radius Fractures: A Retrospective Study

“…2 Thus far, few studies compared the volar and dorsal plate position in the surgical treatment of fractures of the distal radius including different kinds of distal radius fractures according to the Association for Osteosynthesis (AO) classification. 1,4,9,10 Most clinical studies only reported the outcome of either volar or dorsal plate osteosynthesis. 2,5,8 Therefore, exact comparison of the outcome of intra-articular comminuted fractures between volar and dorsal plate osteosynthesis is not possible as, for example, type A fractures are extra-articular.…”

“…3 The dorsal approach is usually favored in patients with excessive dorsal comminution or displacement that are not amenable to indirect reduction via a volar approach. 1 The dorsal approach, however, is controversial because of extensor tendon complications. 2,4,5 Recently, the treatment of volar fixation of dorsally unstable distal radius fractures with a fixed-angle plate was introduced to avoid extensor tendon complications of dorsal plates.…”

“…1 Anatomic reduction with stable fixation is the treatment of choice for displaced, unstable fractures of the distal part of the radius. 2 The goals of treatment are to restore the articular surface congruency and to restore the radial height, radial inclination, and palmar tilt.…”

Complications of Low-Profile Dorsal Versus Volar Locking Plates in the Distal Radius: A Comparative Study

“…1 Displaced, unstable fractures are typically treated by anatomic reduction and stable fixation using plates. 2 Since the late 1980s, dorsal plates have been effectively used to maintain radiographic alignment of dorsally displaced distal radius fractures.…”

Volar Versus Dorsal Fixed-Angle Fixation of Dorsally Unstable Extra-Articular Distal Radius Fractures: A Biomechanic Study

“…Fixed-angle volar plating has been shown clinically to hold reduction of volar tilt and radial inclination reliably until the fracture heals. 2,3,9,14,18 The fracture model that we have created also represents a second clinical situation. Distal radius fractures that have healed with malunion can be treated with an osteotomy.…”