AO/ASIF locking compression plate for unstable distal radial fractures

Objective To evaluate the clinical effect of open reduction and internal fixation with locking compression plate (LCP) for unstable distal radial fractures so as to make comparison with traditional minapulis osteosynthesis. Methods A retrospective study was performed in 41 cases with unstable distal radial fractures, of which 20 cases were treated by open reduction with LCP (including two cases of A 3, two B 1, two B 2, two C 1, four C 2 and eight C 3) and 21 by traditional minapulis osteosynthesis and fixated with plaster cast (including four cases of A 2, eight A 3, three B 1, one B 3, three C 1 and two C 2). Results All the cases were followed up for 4-12 months (average seven months). Bone union achieved in all cases except for one death. According to Aro, in the LCP group, three cases were excellent, 14 good, one fair and one poor and in the traditional treatment group, two cases were excellent, 11 good, six fair and two poor. There was statistically significant difference in regard of functional recovery of radial height and forearm rotation (P0.05). Conclusion Open reduction and internal fixation with LCP is better than traditional minapulis osteosynthesis in treatment of unstable distal radial fractures.