The spanning plate as an internal fixator in complex distal radius fractures: a prospective cohort study

Minimal invasive temporary spanning plate (SP) fixation of the wrist has been described as an alternative treatment method in complex distal radius fractures (DRFs). The purpose of this study is to conduct an outcome analysis of all consecutive DRFs treated by SP fixation representing the so far largest published patient cohort outside the United States.

Indication for SP fixation include DRFs with severe metaphyseal comminution, radiocarpal fracture dislocations with concomitant ligamentous injuries and very distal intra-articular fractures lacking the possibility of adequate plate anchoring. All consecutive patients undergoing SP fixation of DRFs were prospectively included in a single level I trauma centre between 01/01/2018 and 31/12/2020. For functional and patient-rated outcome analysis only patients who completed the 12 month follow-up were included.

In the mentioned timeframe, a total of 562 DRFs were treated operatively of which 28 underwent SP fixation. Average age was 58.1 years (range 22–95 years). The fracture type ranged from AO/OTA type B1.1 to C3.3 and included 8 fracture dislocations. SP removal was performed on average 3.7 months after the initial operation (range 1.4–6.5 months). Twenty-five patients completed the 12 month follow-up (mean 14.5 months, range 12–24). Radiological evidence of fracture healing appeared on average 9.9 weeks (range 5–28 weeks) after the initial operation. One patient experienced asymptomatic non-union. Mean radial inclination, volar tilt and ulnar variance at 1 year were all within the acceptable limit predictive of symptomatic malunion. Complications included two patients with tendon rupture and one patient with extensor tendon adhesions needing tenolysis at the time of plate removal leaving an overall complication rate of 12%. There was no implant failure and no infection. Mean satisfaction score was 8.3 (range 4–10) and mean visual analogue scale for resting pain was 0.8 (range 0–5). The mean PRWE score was 17.9 (range 0–59.5) and the mean DASH score was 16.6 (range 0–60.8). Grip strength averaged 23 kg (range 4–74 kg) amounting to 68% of the opposite side. Range of motion regarding the extension/flexion, radial/ulnar abduction and pronation/supination arc reached 72%, 77% and 95% compared to the unaffected side, respectively.

The radiological, functional and patient-rated outcomes in this study are remarkably good considering the complexity of the included fractures. Therefore, this method represents a valuable alternative for the treatment of complex DRFs in selected patients.