Internal Plate Fixation vs. Plaster in Complete Articular Distal Radial Fractures

Distal radius fractures account for 17% of all fractures diagnosed. Two third of those fractures are displaced and need to be reduced.

According to the Dutch National Guidelines, displaced distal radius fractures, after adequate reduction confirmed on X-ray, are best treated nonoperatively with cast immobilization. Moreover, the AAOS Clinical Practice Guideline only suggest surgical fixation when the articular step, after reduction, exceeds 2mm. However, both recommendations are based on studies who did not differentiate between intra- and extra-articular distal radius fractures. So, no clear consensus about the best treatment for patients with displaced intra-articular distal radius fractures can be made. Despite this lack of consensus and the lack of available literature on comparative data to guide treatment for this patient population, a rise in use of volar plating has been observed.

The goal of open reduction and plate fixation is to restore articular congruity and axial alignment, and to enable early post-operative movement. Several studies show good radiological and functional results using the volar locking plate in unstable displaced distal radius fractures.

No studies have been carried out to assess whether operative treatment with plate fixation is superior in displaced complete articular distal radius fractures to nonoperative treatment in patients with these fracture type. Therefore, with this randomized controlled trial the investigators wish to determine the difference in functional outcome, assessed with the Patient Related Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), after open reduction and plate fixation compared to nonoperative treatment with closed reduction and cast immobilization.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients from 18 - 75 years
• AO type C displaced distal radius fracture, as classified on lateral, posterior anterior and lateral carporadial radiographs/CT-scan by a radiologist or trauma surgeon
• Acceptable closed reduction obtained immediately after admission to the Emergency Department (<12hrs)

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with impaired wrist function prior to injury due to arthrosis/neurological disorders of the upper limb
• Open distal radius fractures
• Multiple trauma patients (Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥16)
• Other fractures of the affected extremity (except from ulnar styloid process)
• Fracture of other wrist
• Insufficient comprehension of the Dutch language to understand a rehabilitation program and other treatment information as judged by the attending physician
• Patient suffering from disorders of bone metabolism other than osteoporosis (i.e. Paget's disease, renal osteodystrophy, osteomalacia)
• Patients suffering from connective tissue disease or (joint) hyperflexibility disorders such as Marfan's, Ehler Danlos or other related disorders