[Dorsal approach and pi-shaped plate for treatment of distal radius fracture].

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the experiences in the treatment of distal radius fracture by locking pi-shaped plate internal fixation. METHODS: All the 32 cases (left 11, right 21) of unstable fractures of distal radius treated by locking pi plate fixation. Among them, 11 were male and 21 female with an average age of 36 years (range, from 23 to 67 years). There were 16 cases of type B, 9 type C1 and 7 type C2 according to AO classification. Autogeneic bone grafting was applied in 27 patients. All the 32 cases were followed up. The range of motion of the wrist joint and radiographic parameters including palmar inclination, radial length and ulnar variance were evaluated. RESULTS: All the patients were followed up for 19 to 28 months postoperatively (mean 25 months). Anatomical reduction was achieved in all the cases. Delayed union or non-union was not observed. According to rating scale of Gartland-Werley, 25 cases got excellent results and 7 good. No complications such as loss of reduction, tendon rupture occurred. CONCLUSION: Locking pi-shaped plate fixation is a reliable and effective method in the treatment of unstable fracture of distal radius.