Dorsal spanning plates showed 100% union rate, aided anatomic reduction of complex distal radius fractures

Issue: April 2017

SAN DIEGO — Patients can have good radiograph results when a variety of dorsal spanning plates were placed through an open approach to treat complex distal radius fractures, according to data presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting. Furthermore, performing the procedure open allowed surgeons to approach an anatomic reduction and visualize the joint line sufficiently enough to possibly use K-wires or extra hardware if needed, according to Eric G. Huish Jr., DO.

Perspective from Mark S. Rekant, MD

“With appropriate technique, you can get good radiographic outcomes in these difficult fractures using a dorsal distraction plate,” he said.

There was a 100% union rate in the 19 patients with the technique, Huish, a resident at Valley Orthopedics in Modesto, Calif., said.

“We also, with this technique, had no infections or other wound complications. This may be one benefit over external fixation used to fix these fractures,” he said.

The results showed there were no complications with the technique, including no tendon ruptures. Two patients underwent a planned tenolysis and a planned plate removal.

Based on the radiographic analysis of the cases, which included 11 men and 8 women whose average age was 48 years and whose fractures were due to trauma or falls, the final radial inclination was 20.5°. – by Susan M. Rapp

Reference:

Bouz T, et al. Paper #112. Presented at: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting; March 14-18, 2017; San Diego.

Disclosure: Huish reports no relevant financial disclosures.

Perspective

Mark S. Rekant, MD

I think a good parameter really is just radiographic healing before the plate would come out. I think it is also good to present because this is certainly something that should be in your armamentarium as far as fracture management. Certainly, not in every case, but it is certainly something that is here to stay and should be familiar to [surgeons].

Mark S. Rekant, MD

Session moderator

The Philadelphia Hand Center

Cherry Hill, N.J.

Disclosures: Rekant reports he is a paid presenter/speaker for Axogen, receives IP royalties from, and is a paid consultant and speaker/presenter for Zimmer Biomet, is a paid presenter/speaker for DJ Orthopedics, is a paid presenter/speaker for Integra and is an unpaid consultant for Trimed.