Distraction plating for the treatment of highly comminuted distal radius fractures in elderly patients.

PURPOSE To evaluate internal distraction plating for the management of comminuted, intra-articular distal radius fractures in patients greater than 60 years of age at two level 1 trauma centers. We specifically desired to determine whether patients would have acceptable results from the clinical standpoint of range of motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, and the radiographic measurements of ulnar variance, radial inclination, and palmar tilt. Our hypothesis was that distraction plating of comminuted distal radius fractures in the elderly would result in acceptable outcomes regarding range of motion, DASH score, and radiographic parameters and would, thereby, provide the upper extremity surgeon with another option for the treatment of these fractures. METHODS A retrospective review was performed on 33 patients over 60 years of age with comminuted distal radius fractures treated with internal distraction plating at two level 1 trauma centers. Patients were treated with internal distraction plating across the radiocarpal joint. At the time of final follow-up, radiographs were evaluated for ulnar variance, radial inclination, and palmar tilt. Range of motion, complications, and DASH scores were also obtained. RESULTS We treated 33 patients (mean age, 70 y) with distraction plating for comminuted distal radius fractures. At final follow-up, all fractures had healed, and radiographs demonstrated mean palmar tilt of 5° and mean positive ulnar variance of 0.6 mm. Mean radial inclination was 20°. Mean values for wrist flexion and extension were 46° and 50°, respectively. Mean pronation and supination were 79° and 77°, respectively. At final follow-up, the mean DASH score was 32. CONCLUSIONS In the elderly, distraction plating is an effective method of treatment for comminuted, osteoporotic distal radius fractures. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic IV.