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Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research

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Open Access 01-12-2012 | Research article

Mid-term functional outcome after the internal fixation of distal radius fractures

Authors: Joideep Phadnis, Alex Trompeter, Kieran Gallagher, Lucy Bradshaw, David S Elliott, Kevin J Newman

Published in: Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research | Issue 1/2012

Abstract

Background

Distal radius fracture is a common injury with a variety of operative and non-operative management options. There remains debate as to the optimal treatment for a given patient and fracture. Despite the popularity of volar locking plate fixation, there are few large cohort or long term follow up studies to justify this modality. Our aim was to report the functional outcome of a large number of patients at a significant follow up time after fixation of their distal radius with a volar locking plate.

Methods

180 patients with 183 fractures and a mean age of 62.4 years were followed up retrospectively at a mean of 30 months (Standard deviation = 10.4). Functional assessment was performed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and modified MAYO wrist scores. Statistical analysis was performed to identify possible variables affecting outcome and radiographs were assessed to determine time to fracture union.

Results

The median DASH score was 2.3 and median MAYO score was 90 for the whole group. Overall, 133 patients (74%) had a good or excellent DASH and MAYO score. Statistical analysis showed that no specific variable including gender, age, fracture type, post-operative immobilisation or surgeon grade significantly affected outcome. Complications occurred in 27 patients (15%) and in 11 patients were major (6%).

Conclusion

This single centre large population series demonstrates good to excellent results in the majority of patients after volar locking plate fixation of the distal radius, with complication rates comparable to other non-operative and operative treatment modalities. On this basis we recommend this mode of fixation for distal radius fractures requiting operative intervention.

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Title: Mid-term functional outcome after the internal fixation of distal radius fractures
Authors: Joideep Phadnis
Alex Trompeter
Kieran Gallagher
Lucy Bradshaw
David S Elliott
Kevin J Newman
Publication date: 01-12-2012
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research / Issue 1/2012
Electronic ISSN: 1749-799X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-799X-7-4

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Mid-term functional outcome after the internal fixation of distal radius fractures

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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