Functional Outcome of Intra-Articular Distal End Radius Fracture Treated with Volar Plate Fixation

Abstract

Abstract Background: The distal ends of radius fractures continue to pose a therapeutic challenge. With the advent of locking plates, the fixation of these fractures has been made better. This study evaluates the functional outcome of surgical management of intra-articular fractures of distal radius by open reduction and internal fixation with volar plate using the demerit point system of Gartland and Werley. Subjects and Methods: Thirty-four patients with intra-articular fractures of the distal end of radius, who were operated by open reduction and internal fixation with volar plate, were included in the study during the period of July 2017–June 2018. With a minimum follow-up of 6 months, radiological outcome was analyzed and functional outcome was recorded. Results: Seventeen patients had excellent results accounting for 50.00%, 13 patients had good results accounting for 38.23%, and 3 patients had fair results accounting for 8.82%. Thirty (88.22%) patients did not have any complications. Highly significant difference (P < 0.001) was found in radial shortening, radial inclination, and volar tilt of patients preoperatively and postoperatively and also between preoperative and at final follow-up (P < 0.001). Nine (52.95%) patients having 3 days of duration from injury to surgery had excellent outcome and 8 (61.54%) had good outcome. Conclusion: Open reduction and internal fixation by volar plate provides better functional outcome in treating the intra-articular fracture of distal end radius. Hence, this procedure can be used as an alternative to other procedures in treating intra-articular fractures of distal end radius with less complications.