Buttress Pinning in the Unstable Distal Radial Fracture

Abstract

Between 1989 and 1993, 20 patients with distal radial fractures were treated with a buttressing technique felt to be safe, effective and simple. Out of the initial 20 patients, 16 have been followed-up and are reported. The technique uses an intramedullary styloid pin and a combined extramedullary–intramedullary dorsal buttress pin. The insertion technique and the use of a medial corner pin are illustrated. Results are evaluated from both final X-ray appearance as well as return of function using the five X-ray parameters of Abbasazadegan et al (1989) and the Mayo modification of the Green and O’Brien wrist score (Cooney et al, 1987). The average score on return of function was 78 (two excellent, eight good, six fair). Final axial shortening averaged –1.4mm (+5 mm– –4 mm), radial displacement averaged 0.68 mm (0 mm–5 mm), radial angle averaged 24.75° (18°–34°), dorsal angle averaged +8.25° (–5°–25°) and dorsal displacement averaged +1.31 (0 mm–+12 mm). From this study we recognize the need for a posterior medial pin, and that routine stress views after pinning can yield information concerning carpal instability, palmar instability and the need for bone grafting.