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European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology

Published in:

01-04-2015 | Original Article

Plate fixation of distal radius fracture and related complications

Authors: Laurent Obert, Francois Loisel, Sonia Huard, Séverin Rochet, Daniel Lepage, Gregoire Leclerc, Patrick Garbuio

Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology | Issue 3/2015

Abstract

Introduction

Distal radius fractures are common. In cases where surgical treatment is needed, volar plates can be used to obtain stable, long-lasting fixation. The design of these plates has continually improved over the years, but complications remain a problem.

Purpose

The goal of this study was to evaluate the types of complications that occur with different types of volar plates with a view towards preventing them.

Materials and methods

The emergency department at our hospital saw 524 patients with distal radius fractures between 2006 and 2008. Some of these were treated surgically with a volar plate. All of the post-operative complications were documented.

Results

With a minimum follow-up of 6 months, 152 patients who had undergone plate fixation were reviewed: 31 had received plates with non-locking screws or uniaxial locking screws and 121 had received plates with polyaxial locking screws. The complication rate was similar in these two groups (16.1 and 16.5 %, respectively). The main complications were tendon ruptures and problems related to the plate itself.

Discussion

Plate-related complications have been described in published studies, but few of these studies link them to the plate design or surgical technique. Manufacturers must continue to refine these plates to minimise their thickness while keeping their strength. Surgeons must be sure to use a highly exacting technique.

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Title: Plate fixation of distal radius fracture and related complications
Authors: Laurent Obert
Francois Loisel
Sonia Huard
Séverin Rochet
Daniel Lepage
Gregoire Leclerc
Patrick Garbuio
Publication date: 01-04-2015
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology / Issue 3/2015
Print ISSN: 1633-8065
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1068
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-014-1550-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Plate fixation of distal radius fracture and related complications

Abstract

Introduction

Purpose

Materials and methods

Results

Discussion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Purpose

Materials and methods

Results

Discussion

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