Prevalence of Flexor Carpi Radialis Brevis in Chinese Patients with Volar Wrist Plating Performed for Distal Radius Fracture

Abstract

Background: Volar locking plates were increasing popular as treatment of distal radius fractures. Various distal forearm anatomical variants were encountered during surgery. Flexor carpi radialis brevis (FCRB) was one of the most common and relevant anatomical variants because of its close proximity to fracture site. Methods: This is a retrospective single-centre study. In a 3.5-year period from March 2015 to August 2018, 133 patients who suffered from distal radius fracture requiring volar wrist plating were identified. Operation records and clinical photos were reviewed. All patients were followed up for at least 1 year. Any complications were recorded. Results: 9 patients with FCRB variant were identified. The prevalence was 6.8%. Hypoplastic pronator quadratus were found in 5 cases out of the 9 cases. None of these cases had any neurovascular injuries. No complications were noted during follow-up at 1 year. Conclusions: In Chinese population with volar locking plate done for distal radius fracture, the prevalence of flexor carpi radialis brevis was 6.8%. Surgeons should be aware of the possibility of FCRB variant.