Background: K-wire pinning, volar fixed angle locking plate, enhanced external fixators, and fragment specific fixations are all alternatives for treating comminuted distal radial fractures. Each strategy has pros and downsides, but there is no agreement on which way is the best. Objective: This study aimed to improve the functional outcome in patients with distal radial fractures, treated with a volar locked plate.
Patients and methods: This prospective study included 18 patients with distal radial fractures who were admitted and operated at Orthopedic Department, Zagazig University Hospitals. All patients were subjected to preoperative and postoperative evaluation. The follow up period of the cases ranged from 6 to 12 months.
Results: The final outcome in distal radius fracture management is dependent on many factors and can be influenced by accurate restoration of the anatomy, minimal disruption of the surrounding tissues, and early active wrist rehabilitation.Fragment specific fixation can give better results in certain types of distal radius fractures.
Conclusion: Volar fixed-angle locked plating is better than external fixation and percutaneous wiring in treating intra-articular distal radial fractures because it affords more stable fixation with anatomical reduction, lower rate of complication and early motion, which results in better functional results.