Abstract: Introduction: Distal radius fractures are one of the most common skeletal injuries in the daily orthopaedic practice. They represent approximately 16% of all adult fractures treated by orthopedic surgeons. Outcome of the displaced extra-or intra-articular fractures require a good anatomical reduction. Various treatments such as manipulation and casting, percutaneous pinning with Kirschner (K) wires, External fixators were being practiced to treat distal radius fractures. Recent advances with Locking compression plates restore anatomical alignment and allow patient to start early mobilisation. The aim of our study is to compare the advantages and disadvantages of intraarticular distal radius fractures fixed with internal fixation using locking compression plate and to analyze the functional and radiological outcomes.
Methods: The present study was carried out on 52 cases of intraarticular distal radius fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation using locking compression plating (LCP) in Department of orthopaedics, Guntur medical college, Andhra Pradesh between November 2014 and October 2015. Functional outcome of patients was evaluated using Mayo modified wrist score and Lidstrom classification score. Data was analysed using SPSS v17 Software.
Results: 52 Patients with intra articular distal radius fractures who fit the inclusion criteria, were selected and operated. Follow up of patients at 10 days, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months were studied according to Mayo modified wrist score. 47 patients exhibited excellent results and 5 patients exhibited good results. Radiological outcome using Lidstorm classification score were measured and 29 patients exhibited excellent results, 19 patients exhibited good results and 4 patients exhibited satisfactory results. Out of 4 patients One developed infection and implant exit was done and another 2 patients developed wrist stiffness and one patient developed hypertrophic scar.
Conclusion:In the present study open reduction internal fixation using locking compression plate with screws was done for intra articular distal radius fractures. This resulted in successful outcome in terms of anatomic realignment, better access with minimal surgical trauma, functional outcomes and fewer complications.
