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Distal Radius Fractures: Indications for Plate Fixation

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European Instructional Lectures

Part of the book series: European Instructional Lectures ((EICL,volume 15))

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Abstract

Plate fixation of displaced distal radius fractures has become increasingly popular after the development of the volar locking plate. This plate has become the “gold standard” and is currently used for almost all types of distal radius fracture. Anatomical reduction and stable fixation is achievable if correct and careful surgical technique is applied. The functional results after plate fixation are good, but the superiority over other treatment options or even conservative treatment still remains to be proven convincingly, especially for the elderly patient. The literature shows a surprising lack of correlation between radiographic results and functional outcome. Some very unstable types of fracture, such as volar shearing (Barton) fracture have a strong indication for plate fixation.

Complication rates for plate fixation show a very large variety, but it seems possible to prevent many of these complication if correct plate position is observed and special attention is given to avoid penetrating screws.

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  1. Department of Orthopedics, Odense University Hospital, Sdr. Boulevard 9, 5000, Odense C, Denmark

    Morten Schultz Larsen MD

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Correspondence to Morten Schultz Larsen MD .

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  1. Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital Trust, Stanmore, Middlesex, United Kingdom

    George Bentley

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Larsen, M.S. (2015). Distal Radius Fractures: Indications for Plate Fixation. In: Bentley, G. (eds) European Instructional Lectures. European Instructional Lectures, vol 15. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-46287-4_8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-46287-4_8

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