Posttraumatic Arthritis After Combined Plating of Distal Radius Fractures AO Type C: A 7-Year Follow-up of 97 Cases

Hand ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 155894472110289
Author(s):  
Eva Lundqvist ◽  
Per Fischer ◽  
Per Wretenberg ◽  
Wolfgang Krauss ◽  
Marcus Sagerfors

Background: Volar locking plate fixation is the most common method of operative fixation of distal radius fractures (DRFs). For more complex cases, combined plating is an option for stabilizing intra-articular fragments. The prevalence of posttraumatic arthritis (PA) after an intra-articular DRF, and its relation to patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to study the prevalence of PA and its correlation to clinical outcome measures. Methods: We evaluated 97 consecutive patients with intra-articular DRF, operated with combined plating, 7 years postoperatively. The primary outcome measure was the prevalence of radiographic PA. Secondary outcome measures included visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, hand grip strength, wrist range of motion (ROM), Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score. Radiographic examination was performed between 1 and 7 years postoperatively. Results: The prevalence of PA was 29% at the 7-year follow-up. No correlation was found between PA and ROM, hand grip strength, PRWE, QuickDASH, VAS pain scores, or radiographic reduction. Median wrist ROM and grip strength were significantly inferior compared with the uninjured side. Hardware removal was performed in 51.5% of cases. There were 2 cases of tendon ruptures. Conclusions: Combined plating can yield a good clinical outcome 7 years postoperatively and a low prevalence of PA. The presence of PA did not correlate to clinical outcome measures or to the accuracy of anatomical reduction 1 year postoperatively. The frequency of tendon ruptures was acceptable, but the high frequency of hardware removal is a concern.

2018 ◽  
Vol 07 (05) ◽  
pp. 409-414
Author(s):  
J. Hill ◽  
Gabriel Bouz ◽  
Ali Azad ◽  
William Pannell ◽  
R. Alluri ◽  
...  

Background No consensus exists regarding postoperative splinting position following volar plate fixation of distal radius fractures. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether immobilization in supination would result in superior outcomes compared with no restriction of forearm range of motion. Patients and Methods All patients >18 years of age with distal radius fractures indicated for volar plate fixation were eligible. Exclusion criteria were open fracture and concomitant injury to, or functional deficit of, either upper extremity. Patients were randomized to immobilization in (1) maximal supination with a sugar-tong splint or (2) no restriction of supination with a volar splint. Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, and visual analog scale (VAS) score; wrist range of motion; and grip strength were recorded at 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively. A Student's t-test was used to compare mean values of all outcome measures at each time point. Results A total of 46 patients enrolled in the study; 28 were immobilized with a volar splint and 18 were immobilized with a sugar-tong splint. Six-week follow-up data were obtained for 32 patients. There was no significant difference in PRWE, DASH, and VAS scores; or range of motion; or grip strength between the two groups postoperatively. Conclusion Range of motion, grip strength, and patient-rated outcome measures were similar regardless of postoperative immobilization technique in patients with a distal radius fractures stabilized with a volar plate. Surgeons can elect to use the standard-of-care postoperative immobilization modality of their preference following volar plate fixation without compromising short-term return to function. Level of Evidence This is a Level II, therapeutic study.


2017 ◽  
Vol 22 (04) ◽  
pp. 423-428 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yoshihiro Abe ◽  
Masahiro Suzuki ◽  
Hiromasa Wakita

Background: To assess the surgical results of distal radius fractures with the involvement of a volar rim fragment using the DePuy-Synthes 2.0 mm and 2.4 mm locking plates.Methods: Subjects were six women and one man of average age 57 years (range, 31–83 y) and a mean follow-up period of 9 months (range, 5–19 mo) with AO B3 (volar shearing) distal radius fractures. Time of the procedure, physical examination of wrist range of motion, grip strength compared with the contralateral healthy wrist, and radiographic evaluation (volar tilt, radial inclination, and ulnar variance) were evaluated. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS: 0 points represents no pain, 100 points represents the worst pain possible) and the Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH, 0 = no disability, 100 = extreme disability) were completed by patients at the final follow-up.Results: The average time of the procedure was 74 min. There were no perioperative complications. Average radiographic measures were: volar tilt, 8°; radial inclination, 23°, and ulnar variance, 0 mm. Wrist range of motion averaged 63° in wrist extension (range, 55–80°) and 55° in wrist flexion (range, 45–65°). Grip strength averaged 81% of the contralateral side at final evaluation (range, 67–100%). The mean QuickDASH score was 3.0 points (range, 0–9.1 points) and the mean VAS for pain was 9.3 at final follow-up.Conclusions: Open reduction internal fixation with the DePuy-Synthes 2.0 mm and 2.4 mm locking plates is an effective means of fixing a distal radius fracture that includes a volar rim fragment without interfering with flexor tendon gliding.


Hand ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (2) ◽  
pp. 276-280 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. David Luo ◽  
Fiesky A. Nunez ◽  
Elizabeth A. Newman ◽  
Fiesky A. Nunez

Background: Distal radius articular step-off or deformity may cause posttraumatic arthritis and poor functional outcome. The purpose of this study was to evaluate pain and functional outcomes in patients with malunited partial articular distal radius fractures who underwent corrective osteotomy. We hypothesized that anatomic restoration of distal radius articular surface after a malunited partial articular distal radius fracture results in improvement in pain and functional measures and delays the development of posttraumatic arthritis. Methods: Seven consecutive patients with mean age of 38 years underwent corrective osteotomy via either a standard dorsal approach or combined dorsal and volar approach. Mean time from injury to corrective osteotomy was 10 weeks. Patients were assessed with respect to Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), forearm and wrist range of motion, pain, and grip strength. Results: At mean follow-up of 44 months, significant improvements in pain scores (7.1-0.9, P < .001), QuickDASH (38.7-11.6, P < .001), grip strength (21.4-30.0 kg, P = .01) were achieved. All range of motion measurements demonstrated significant improvements except forearm pronation. One patient demonstrated radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis but had no pain at final follow-up. No patients required secondary surgery for removal of symptomatic hardware. Conclusions: Based on these findings, we recommend that early corrective osteotomies should be considered in young patients with intra-articular distal radius malunions before considering salvage procedures such as partial or complete wrist arthrodesis.


Author(s):  
Tim Coughlin ◽  
Alan R. Norrish ◽  
Brigitte E. Scammell ◽  
Paul A. Matthews ◽  
Jessica Nightingale ◽  
...  

Aims Following cast removal for nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures, rehabilitation facilitated by advice leaflet and advice video were compared to a course of face-to-face therapy. Methods Adults with an isolated, nonoperatively treated distal radius fracture were included at six weeks post-cast removal. Participants were randomized to delivery of rehabilitation interventions in one of three ways: an advice leaflet; an advice video; or face-to-face therapy session(s). The primary outcome measure was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at six weeks post intervention and secondary outcome measures included DASH at one year, DASH work subscale, grip strength, and range of motion at six weeks and one year. Results A total of 116 (97%) of 120 enrolled participants commenced treatment. Of those, 21 were lost to follow-up, resulting in 30 participants in the advice leaflet, 32 in the advice video, and 33 face-to-face therapy arms, respectively at six weeks of follow-up. There was no significant difference between the treatment groups in the DASH at six weeks (advice leaflet vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.69; advice video vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.56; advice leaflet vs advice video, p = 0.37; advice leaflet vs advice video vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.63). At six weeks, there were no differences in any secondary outcome measures except for the DASH work subscale, where face-to-face therapy conferred benefit over advice leaflet (p = 0.01). Conclusion Following cast removal for nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures, offering an advice leaflet or advice video for rehabilitation gives equivalent patient-reported outcomes to a course of face-to-face therapy.


2018 ◽  
Vol 07 (05) ◽  
pp. 358-365
Author(s):  
Schneider Rancy ◽  
Stephanie Malliaris ◽  
Eric Bogner ◽  
Scott Wolfe

Purpose CAGE-DR implant is a novel Food and Drug Administration approved intramedullary fracture fixation device used for distal radius fractures. We examine a series of 22 patients and report the outcomes with this device. Materials and Methods A total of 24 patients with distal radius fractures (8 articular AO type C1/C2; 16 extra-articular AO type A2/A3) underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using CAGE-DR implant by a single surgeon. Data including fracture type, angle of displacement, radiographic consolidation, grip strength, wrist range of motion (ROM), patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores were recorded at time of surgery and at standard follow-up. Results All 24 patients underwent uneventful ORIF. At first follow-up visit (9 days), all patients had full digital ROM (measured as 0 cm tip-to-palm distance). Two patients were lost to follow-up. Eighteen of the remaining 22 patients had sufficient radiographic follow-up and all 18 demonstrated healing. At latest follow-up (mean 9.7 months, range, 3–20), VAS pain scores averaged 0.6 (range, 0–8) and PRWE averaged 12.1 (range, 0–53.5). Grip strength of the operated hand averaged 58 lbs (range, 20–130). ROM included: wrist flexion 73° (50–95), wrist extension 78° (60–110), pronation 77° (60–90), supination 79° (60–90), ulnar deviation 31° (5–45), and radial deviation 17° (10–30). Three patients underwent screw removal to prevent tendon irritation. One patient underwent hardware removal due to prominence on imaging but was asymptomatic. There were otherwise no major complications, including complex regional pain syndrome, in the series to date. Conclusion The CAGE-DR fracture fixation system is a promising alternative to established methods of distal radius internal fixation. This series has a low reported pain score starting immediately postoperatively and a low complication rate. This novel device is a promising option for internal fixation of displaced distal radius fractures with a low complication profile. Level of Evidence This is a level IV, therapeutic study.


Author(s):  
Kastanis G ◽  
Pantouvaki A ◽  
Kapsetakis P ◽  
Spyrantis M ◽  
Magarakis G ◽  
...  

Distal radius fractures (DRF) are the most common type of fractures of the upper extremities with an incidence of 44% of all types of forearm and hand fractures. In unstable DRF, the aim of surgical treatment is to restore a functional wrist. Volar locking plate is supported in literature as a promising surgical method in treatment of these fractures. The aim of this study is to analyze the type and complication rate with applied volar locking plate, the percentage of revision surgery and the functional outcomes in a minimum of one year follow up. Material &Methods: 104 fractures in 98 patients with a mean range of 48,5 years-old age underwent for unstable distal radius fractures with volar locking plate. The main cause was simple fall to an outstretched hand. In ten cases the fracture was open while in 28 cases the DRF was accompanied with ulnar styloid. All fractures classified by AO/OTA in A2-3 27 cases, B1-3 in 45 and C1-3 in 32 cases. The majority of patients were operated within 48-72 hours after injury. In all cases an extended flexor carpi radialis approach was performed and a volar locking plate was applied in all DRF’s. In sixteen cases with base of ulnar styloid fractures, low profile locking plates were applied, while in the rest of patients Kirschner wires were used. Postoperatively all patients followed a standard protocol rehabilitation program with passive and active motion of fingers and wrist. Results: Patients were evaluated according to complication (type and rate), time to fracture union, range of motion, Visual analogue pain scale, Quick Dash Score and patients-rated wrist evaluation score. Complications were distinguished in major and minor. Patients under 60 years-old with type fracture A2-3 and B1-3 showed better range of motion and grip strength than patients over 65 years old. In cases with type fractures C1-3 and age over 65 years old, ROM and grip strength decreased compared with the unilateral side. The percentage of complication and reoperation appeared more increased in type C1-3 related to the other two types of fractures. Finally the mean Quick DASH was 11,1±12,8, RPWE was 9.8±13,6 and the range of motion was in extension 75,2±7,3, in flexion 74±8,9, in pronation 85,6±1,9, in supination 88,5±2,4 in radial deviation 9,8±1,2 and in ulnar deviation 41,1±4,6 and grip strength was an average of 84,7% of uninjured hand. Conclusion: Unstable fractures required operative treatment with volar locking plate to be the gold standard in recently years. Unfortunately VPL presents postoperative complications related with plate and screw position with comminuted fracture or soft tissue damage which cannot be ignored, and for these reasons may be inadequate for all types of distal radius fractures.


2017 ◽  
Vol 06 (04) ◽  
pp. 285-293 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mats Wadsten ◽  
Gunnar Buttazzoni ◽  
Göran Sjödén ◽  
Arkan Sayed-Noor ◽  
Bakir Kadum

Aim The purpose of this prospective multicenter study was to test the predictive value of cortical comminution and intra-articular involvement on function and quality of life in distal radius fractures (DRFs) using the Buttazzoni's classification system. Patients and Methods We studied 406 patients between skeletal maturity and 74 years of age with DRF. Fractures with acceptable radiographic alignment were immobilized with a cast. Fractures with nonacceptable radiographic alignment underwent closed reduction and 4 to 6 weeks cast immobilization. Radiographs were obtained after reduction and at 10 to 14 days. Redisplaced fractures were offered surgical treatment. One-year follow-up included grip strength, range of motion (ROM), quickDASH, EQ-5D (including visual analog scale [VAS] for health status), and VAS pain. Results We found no statistically significant differences in QuickDASH, EQ-5D questionnaire, EQ-5D health status VAS, and VAS pain among the Buttazzoni classes. However, initial displacement was associated with worse quickDASH score, worse EQ-5D score, reduced grip strength, and reduced ROM. Dorsal comminution was associated with worse quickDASH score, reduced flexion, and reduced pronation–supination ability. Volar comminution predicted loss of extension, while intra-articular involvement was associated with reduced flexion–extension arc and worse EQ-5D score. There was a significant difference in ROM between noncomminuted and comminuted fracture classes. Conclusion Initial fracture position, type of comminution, and intra-articular involvement influenced the clinical outcome in DRF.


2019 ◽  
Vol 08 (03) ◽  
pp. 180-185 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marcus Sagerfors ◽  
Patrik Bjorling ◽  
Johan Niklasson ◽  
Kurt Pettersson

Background The distal radius fracture (DRF) is the most common fracture among adults. In recent years, there has been a shift toward volar locking plates in the treatment of DRFs, and this shift has taken place with a low degree of evidence. Question/purposes Can combined volar T-plating and dorsal pi-plating of AO type C fractures yield a good functional and radiographic outcome 1 year postoperatively? Patients and Methods In a retrospective cohort study, we evaluated 102 consecutive patients operated with combined dorsal and volar plating, of whom 80 completed the 1-year follow-up. The DRFs were operated between 2012 and 2013. All cases were AO type C2 and C3 fractures. The primary outcome was functional scoring including radiographic examination. Secondary outcome measures included range of motion, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, and hand grip strength. Results The median Batra radiographic score was 84.5. Wrist extension was 74% of the uninjured side, flexion was 70%, pronation was 94%, and supination was 90%. The Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation score was 21 points, and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 19.4 points. VAS pain scores were 0 at rest and 3 during activity. Hand grip strength was 80% of the uninjured side. Radiographic outcome did not correspond to a patient-reported outcome. Hardware removal was performed in 15/80 cases. Conclusions We conclude that a good outcome can be expected after combined dorsal and volar plating of DRFs. Radiographic outcome is not necessarily associated with functional outcome 1 year postoperatively. The rate of hardware removal was acceptable. Level of Evidence III


2017 ◽  
Vol 43 (2) ◽  
pp. 131-136 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Å. Wadsten ◽  
G. O. Sjödén ◽  
G. G. Buttazzoni ◽  
C. Buttazzoni ◽  
E. Englund ◽  
...  

Late displacement of distal radius fractures, still in acceptable radiological position after 1–2 weeks, occurs in approximately one-third of cases. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of late displacement on the functional outcome and quality of life at 1 year in non-operatively treated distal radius fractures. One hundred and seventy five unilateral conservatively treated distal radius fractures with minimal displacement after 10–14 days were finally evaluated in the study. Follow-up included radiographs at 3 months and clinical examination 1 year after the fracture. Final radiographic parameters, grip strength, range of motion, QuickDASH, EQ-5D and pain visual analogue scale were evaluated with multivariate analysis. Late displacement occurred in 28% of the cases and was associated with loss of grip strength and range of motion. No significant differences were seen in the outcome questionnaires. Level of evidence: II


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