Dynamic External Fixator Combined with Volar Locking Plate Fixation for the Treatment of AO Type C3 Distal Radius Fractures ()
ABSTRACT
Background: AO type C3 distal radius fracture (DRF) is the most difficult-to-treat
fracture type because of a tendency to shorten and collapse. The purpose of
this study is to investigate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of
comminuted intra-articular DRFs treated with a dynamic external fixator
combined with a volar locking plate (VLP). Methods: Eleven patients
(mean age, 61 years) with comminuted intra-articular DRFs were treated with a
dynamic type of external fixator combined with a VLP. Following reduction and
fixation with a VLP, the dynamic external fixator was applied and the distal
ball joint of the fixator was aligned with the lunate-capitate
line. The ball joint was unlocked
approximately 2 weeks after surgery to allow wrist mobilization. The
fixator was removed 3 - 6 weeks (mean, 5 weeks) after surgery. Consequently, clinical and
radiographic assessments were carried out at the final follow-up. Results: At the final follow-up, the mean range values of wrist extension and flexion
were 76° and 64°, respectively. Compared with the contralateral side, the mean grip
strength was 84%. The mean Modified Mayo Wrist Score and the Disabilities of
the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score were 88 and 9, respectively. No significant
differences in the radiographic parameters exist between after surgery and
final follow-up. Conclusions: This study indicated that the dynamic
wrist fixator combined with a VLP is effective for the treatment of AO type C3
DRFs.
Share and Cite:
Nishida, K. , Ho Che, Y. , Irifune, H. , Uesugi, K. , Maeda, A. and Miyata, K. (2022) Dynamic External Fixator Combined with Volar Locking Plate Fixation for the Treatment of AO Type C3 Distal Radius Fractures.
Open Journal of Orthopedics,
12, 131-141. doi:
10.4236/ojo.2022.124014.
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