Publication:

A descriptive longitudinal study of functional outcome in intra-articular distal end radius fracture with volar displacement treated by locking compression plate

Background The distal radius metaphysis is composed mainly of cancellous bone. On articular surface there is a biconcave articulating surface with the proximally placed carpal row (scaphoid and lunate fossae) and also a notch for articulation with the ulna. Objective of the research was to study the functional outcome in distal end radius fracture with volar displacement treated by locking compression plate.

Methods A hospital based descriptive, longitudinal study was conducted with 114 patients aged between 20-60 years to assess functional outcome in patients of distal end radius fracture with volar displacement treated by locking compression plate.

Results According to demerit point score system of Gartland and Werley, 75 (69.4%) patients had excellent score while 24 (17.5%) and 15 (13.1%) patients had good and fair score respectively. No patient had poor score. 6 (5.3%) and 2 (1.8%) patients had superficial infection and hypertrophic scar respectively while 1 (0.9%) patient had developed malunion.

Conclusions Volar plating has excellent functional outcome with minimal complications thus proving that it is the prime modality of treatment for distal radius fractures.