Comparison of outcome of VLCP versus PKEF in the treatment of AO type C2-3 distal radial fractures

PURPOSES Fractures of the distal radius are extremely common in adults. However, the optimal management remains controversial, especially in AO type C2-3 (Type23 C2 or C3 of distal radial fracture, according to AO classifications). The purpose of this study was to compare the results of the volar locking compression plate (VLCP) and percutaneous Kirschner-wires combined with external fixation (PKEF) in the treatment of the AO type C2-3 fractures. METHODS From July 2012 to June 2015, 62 patients with AO type C2-3 fractures, treated by VLCP or PKEF, were included in this retrospective study. Patients were followed up at 3 months, 6 months after operation, and final follow up. Outcomes were assessed by radiographic features in all follow up and by DASH and Sarmiento's modification of the Gartland-Werley score at final follow up. RUSULTS No significant difference was noted between these two groups in terms of volar inclination, ulnar angulation and ulnar variance. There was also no significant difference on DASH score between these two groups. However, according to the Sarmiento's modification of the Gartland-Werley scores, the scores was higher in VLCP group than the PKEF group, and ratings of excellent and good were lower in the VLCP group (P = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Both techniques could get satisfactory results in the treatment of AO type C2-3 fractures, but PKEF leads to better wrist function than VLCP .