Plate Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures: What Type of Plate to Use and When?

Complications of Volar Versus Low-Profile Dorsal Plating of Distal Radius Fractures

Distal radius fractures are one of the most common injuries of the upper extremity. Although nonsurgical management is common, surgical intervention, particularly using volar and dorsal plate fixation, is essential in a subset of injuries. Historically, dorsal plates were avoided due to a high rate of extensor tendon irritation and rupture. Volar locking plates were developed in the early 1990s and first published in 2000 to avoid the complications associated with dorsal plating and have since become widely considered the workhorse for most distal radius fractures. Despite advancements, both fixation methods are still associated with complications, warranting careful selection based on fracture patterns. The purpose of this review is to summarize the most recent literature on the complications associated with the use of volar and low-profile dorsal distal radius plates.

Optimizing Treatment Strategies for Distal Radius Fractures in Osteoporosis: A Comparative Review

Osteoporosis is a common yet underdiagnosed condition that increases the risk of fractures, contributing to substantial morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are some of the most common fractures associated with osteoporosis and often precede more severe fractures. Managing DRFs in patients with osteoporosis can be a challenge due to altered bone quality, which can affect healing and surgical fixation. This review examines both operative and nonoperative management strategies for DRFs in osteoporotic patients, emphasizing the importance of individualized treatment. Surgical interventions, like open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plating, can facilitate early mobilization and improved alignment, especially in more active patients. However, osteoporosis poses risks such as hardware failure, infection, and malunion, calling for careful patient selection. Conversely, nonoperative management may be more suitable for patients with lower functional demands or higher surgical risks, despite the increased risk of malunion. By adapting treatment strategies to individual patient characteristics, orthopedic surgeons can optimize outcomes, minimize complications, and potentially prevent future fractures. Both operative and nonoperative treatments can yield positive outcomes when personalized to the patient's needs.

Bridge Versus Volar Plating Distal Radius Fractures in Patients With Concomitant Lower-Extremity Fractures

Purpose

Our objective was to determine if patients with a distal radius fracture and concomitant lower-extremity fracture benefit from bridge plating when compared with volar plating.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study evaluating distal radius fractures fixated by bridge or volar plating in orthopedic trauma patients with a concomitant lower-extremity fracture. Patients were prescribed a platform walker and followed for gait aid use and both upper and lower-extremity fracture-related outcomes.

Results

Differences in platform walker use, radiographic findings, and rates of complications for both distal radius and lower-extremity fractures were comparable between groups.

Conclusions

Although more studies are needed, it appears that this cohort of patient's ability to mobilize using a gait aid is similar, regardless of the distal radius fracture fixation method. A concomitant lower-extremity fracture should not necessarily indicate bridge plating over volar plate fixation.

Type of study/level of Evidence

Therapeutic Study IV.