Treatment of unstable fractures of distal radius by fixed-angle volar plates combined with Kirschner-wires

Objective To summarize our experience of treating unstable fractures of distal radius by fixed-angle volar plates combined with Kirsehner-wires. Methods Nineteen patients with unstable fractures of distal radius were treated by fixed-angle volar plate fixation combined with Kirschner-wires. They were followed up for wrist motion evaluation and radiographic examinmion. Results All cases were followed up for 5 to 14 (mean, 11) months. All fractures healed within 5 to 16 weeks. Their volar tilt angles ranged 5°to 12°and radial inclination 18°to 24°.Six cases reported slight pain and 4 cases limited motion. According to the Cooney rating scale,4 cases were excellent,13 cases good and 2 cases fair. Conclusion Fixed-angle volar plating combined with Kirschner-wiring can achieve satisfactory effects in treatment of unstable fractures of distal radius. Key words: Radius; Fracture fixation; Plate; Kirschner-wire