Volar locking compression plate combining with external fixation in treatment of the distal radius fractures of type C3 from volar and dorsal approaches

Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of volar locking compression plate combining with external fixation used in treatment of the distal radius fractures of type C3 from volar and dorsal approaches.Methods 19 patients with distal radius fracture of type C3 were treated with volar locking compression plate combining with external fixation from volar and dorsal approaches.4 weeks after the operation,the external fixator was adjusted to neutral position to start rotation of the forearm exercises;6 weeks after the operation,the external fixator was removed to start function of wrist exercises.Results 19 patients were followed up range from 8 to 15 months.There were no cases with osteomyelitis,infection and traumatic arthritis in the follow-up period.The bone union time was 4~6 months.6 months after operation according to the improved Gartland-Werley grading system,the wrist function was evaluated as excellent in 14 cases,good in 3 cases and fair in 2.In relative length of distal radius,palmar tilt and ulnar deviation,there were no significant diffenences between 1 week after operation and after 6 months(P0.05),there were no significant defferences between 6 months after operation compared with the opposite side(P0.05).Conclusions Volar locking compression plate combining with external fixation is an effective treatment for the distal radius fractures of type C3 from volar and dorsal approaches.