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Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery

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01-08-2013 | Handsurgery

Complications following palmar plate fixation of distal radius fractures: a review of 665 cases

Authors: P. Esenwein, J. Sonderegger, J. Gruenert, B. Ellenrieder, J. Tawfik, M. Jakubietz

Published in: Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery | Issue 8/2013

Abstract

Introduction

Palmar plate fixation of unstable distal radial fractures is quickly becoming the standard treatment for this common injury. The literature reporting complications consists mainly of isolated case reports or small case series.

Method

Between February 2004 and December 2009 palmar plate fixation was performed in 665 cases. The overall complication rate was 11.3 % (75 complications). Revision surgery was necessary in 10 % (65 procedures).

Results

The reasons for revision surgery were: postoperative median nerve compression (22 patients) and secondary dislocation (9 patients). An ulna shortening osteotomy for ulnar impingement syndrome was necessary in eight cases. Intraarticular screw placement occurred in three patients. There were two flexor pollicis longus, one finger flexor and three extensor pollicis longus tendon ruptures. Posttraumatic compartment syndrome of the forearm requiring fasciotomy occurred in four cases. There were three cases of infection. Nonoperative treatment was necessary in nine patients, who developed a complex regional pain syndrome. Hardware failure occurred in three cases. Hardware removal was performed in 232 (34 %) cases.

Conclusion

Palmar plate fixation of distal radius fractures is a safe and effective procedure. Nevertheless, complications necessitating a second intervention are relatively common. A proportion of these complications is iatrogenic and can be avoided by improving the surgical technique.

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Title: Complications following palmar plate fixation of distal radius fractures: a review of 665 cases
Authors: P. Esenwein
J. Sonderegger
J. Gruenert
B. Ellenrieder
J. Tawfik
M. Jakubietz
Publication date: 01-08-2013
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery / Issue 8/2013
Print ISSN: 0936-8051
Electronic ISSN: 1434-3916
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-013-1766-x

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Complications following palmar plate fixation of distal radius fractures: a review of 665 cases

Abstract

Introduction

Method

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Method

Results

Conclusion

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