Skip to main content
Log in

Complications after operatively treated distal radius fractures

  • Trauma Surgery
  • Published:
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

In the recent years, treatment of distal radius fractures (DRF) has advanced considerably. Surgical fixation with palmar angular stable plate has gained popularity, due to a reported lower complication rate when compared to dorsal fixation. The type of trauma or injury, surgical procedure and impaired bone quality are all contributors to complications in DRF. The main aim of this review is to summarize the most common complications and possible therapeutic solutions. In addition, strategies for minimizing these complications will be discussed.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Fig. 1
Fig. 2

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  1. Young BT, Rayan GM (2000) Outcome following nonoperative treatment of displaced distal radius fractures in low-demand patients older than 60 years. J Hand Surg Am 25:19–28. https://doi.org/10.1053/jhsu.2000.jhsu025a0019

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  2. Diwersi N, Babst R, Link B-C (2016) Miniplates as augmentation implants in osteosynthesis of complex distal radial fractures. Oper Orthop Traumatol 28:402–406. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00064-016-0469-1

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  3. Hintringer W, Rosenauer R, Pezzei C et al (2020) Biomechanical considerations on a CT-based treatment-oriented classification in radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03405-7

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  4. Cummings SR (1989) Lifetime risks of hip, colles’, or vertebral fracture and coronary heart disease among white postmenopausal women. Arch Intern Med 149:2445. https://doi.org/10.1001/archinte.1989.00390110045010

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  5. Pillukat T, Fuhrmann R, Windolf J, van Schoonhoven J (2016) The volar locking plate for extension fractures of the distal radius. Oper Orthop Traumatol 28:47–63. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00064-015-0433-5

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  6. Fanuele J, Koval KJ, Lurie J et al (2009) Distal radial fracture treatment: what you get may depend on your age and address. J Bone Jt Surg Am 91:1313–1319. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.H.00448

    Article  Google Scholar 

  7. Hohendorff B, Unglaub F, Spies CK et al (2019) Repair of the pronator quadratus muscle with a part of the brachioradialis muscle insertion in volar plate fixation of a distal radius fracture. Oper Orthop Traumatol. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00064-019-0601-0

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  8. Figl M, Weninger P, Liska M et al (2009) Volar fixed-angle plate osteosynthesis of unstable distal radius fractures: 12 months results. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 129:661–669. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-009-0830-z

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  9. Figl M, Weninger P, Jurkowitsch J et al (2010) Unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly patient–volar fixed-angle plate osteosynthesis prevents secondary loss of reduction. J Trauma 68:992–998. https://doi.org/10.1097/TA.0b013e3181b99f71

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  10. Quadlbauer S, Pezzei C, Jurkowitsch J et al (2018) Early complications and radiological outcome after distal radius fractures stabilized by volar angular stable locking plate. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 138:1773–1782. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-018-3051-5

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  11. Costa ML, Achten J, Parsons NR et al (2014) Percutaneous fixation with Kirschner wires versus volar locking plate fixation in adults with dorsally displaced fracture of distal radius: randomised controlled trial. BMJ 349:g4807. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.g4807

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  12. Koval KJ, Harrast JJ, Anglen JO, Weinstein JN (2008) Fractures of the distal part of the radius: the evolution of practice over time. Where’s the evidence? J Bone Jt Surg 90:1855–1861. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.G.01569

    Article  Google Scholar 

  13. Wei DH, Raizman NM, Bottino CJ et al (2009) Unstable distal radial fractures treated with external fixation, a radial column plate, or a volar plate: A prospective randomized trial. J Bone Jt Surg 91:1568–1577. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.H.00722

    Article  Google Scholar 

  14. Schnetzke M, Fuchs J, Vetter SY et al (2018) Intraoperative three-dimensional imaging in the treatment of distal radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 138:487–493. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-018-2867-3

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  15. Quadlbauer S, Hofmann GJ, Leixnering M et al (2018) Open reduction and fixation with a locking plate without bone grafting is a reasonable and safe option for treating proximal humerus nonunion. Int Orthop 5:5. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-018-3820-3

    Article  Google Scholar 

  16. Rubin G, Orbach H, Chezar A, Rozen N (2017) Treatment of physeal fractures of the distal radius by volar intrafocal Kapandji method: surgical technique. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 137:49–54. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-016-2592-8

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  17. Gehrmann SV, Windolf J, Kaufmann RA (2008) Distal radius fracture management in elderly patients: a literature review. J Hand Surg Am 33:421–429. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.12.016

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  18. Chung KC, Shauver MJ, Birkmeyer JD (2009) Trends in the United States in the treatment of distal radial fractures in the elderly. J Bone Jt Surg 91:1868–1873. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.H.01297

    Article  Google Scholar 

  19. Leixnering M, Rosenauer R, Pezzei C et al (2020) Indications, surgical approach, reduction and stabilization techniques of distal radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03365-y

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  20. Kastenberger T, Kaiser P, Schmidle G et al (2020) Arthroscopic assisted treatment of distal radius fractures and concomitant injuries. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03373-y

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  21. Quadlbauer S, Pezzei C, Jurkowitsch J et al (2016) Early rehabilitation of distal radius fractures stabilized by volar locking plate: a prospective randomized pilot study. J Wrist Surg 06:102–112. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0036-1587317

    Article  Google Scholar 

  22. Quadlbauer S, Pezzei C, Hintringer W et al (2018) Clinical examination of the distal radioulnar joint. Der Orthopade 47(8):628–636. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00132-018-3584-x

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  23. Quadlbauer S, Pezzei C, Jurkowitsch J et al (2017) Spontaneous radioscapholunate fusion after septic arthritis of the wrist: a case report. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 137:579–584. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-017-2659-1

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  24. Quadlbauer S, Pezzei C, Jurkowitsch J et al (2020) Rehabilitation after distal radius fractures: is there a need for immobilization and physiotherapy? Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03367-w

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  25. Vannabouathong C, Hussain N, Guerra-Farfan E, Bhandari M (2018) Interventions for distal radius fractures: a network meta-analysis of randomized trials. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. https://doi.org/10.5435/JAAOS-D-18-00424

    Article  Google Scholar 

  26. Quadlbauer S, Leixnering M (2017) Volar radioscapholunate arthrodesis and distal scaphoidectomy after malunited distal radius fractures. Elsevier, Amsterdam

    Book  Google Scholar 

  27. Il LJ, Cho JH, Lee SJ (2015) The effects of the Frag-Loc(®) compression screw on distal radius fracture with a displaced dorsoulnar fragment. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 135:1315–1321. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-015-2290-y

    Article  Google Scholar 

  28. Arora R, Lutz M, Hennerbichler A et al (2007) Complications following internal fixation of unstable distal radius fracture with a palmar locking-plate. J Orthop Trauma 21:316–322. https://doi.org/10.1097/BOT.0b013e318059b993

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  29. Diaz-Garcia RJ, Oda T, Shauver MJ, Chung KC (2011) A systematic review of outcomes and complications of treating unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly. J Hand Surg Am 36:824–35.e2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.02.005

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  30. Wichlas F, Haas NP, Disch A et al (2014) Complication rates and reduction potential of palmar versus dorsal locking plate osteosynthesis for the treatment of distal radius fractures. J Orthop Traumatol 15:259–264. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10195-014-0306-y

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  31. Esenwein P, Sonderegger J, Gruenert J et al (2013) Complications following palmar plate fixation of distal radius fractures: a review of 665 cases. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 133:1155–1162. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-013-1766-x

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  32. McKay SD, MacDermid JC, Roth JH, Richards RS (2001) Assessment of complications of distal radius fractures and development of a complication checklist. J Hand Surg Am 26:916–922. https://doi.org/10.1053/jhsu.2001.26662

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  33. Haug LCP, Deml C, Blauth M, Arora R (2011) Dorsal screw penetration following implant removal after volar locked plating of distal radius fracture. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 131:1279–1282. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-011-1300-y

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  34. Zenke Y, Sakai A, Oshige T et al (2013) Extensor pollicis longus tendon ruptures after the use of volar locking plates for distal radius fractures. Hand Surg 18:169–173. https://doi.org/10.1142/S0218810413500196

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  35. Asadollahi S, Keith PPA (2013) Flexor tendon injuries following plate fixation of distal radius fractures: a systematic review of the literature. J Orthop Traumatol 14:227–234. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10195-013-0245-z

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  36. Fowler JR, Ilyas AM (2013) Prospective evaluation of distal radius fractures treated with variable-angle volar locking plates. J Hand Surg Am 38:2198–2203. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.08.116

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  37. Lutz M, Erhart S, Deml C, Klestil T (2016) Arthroscopically assisted osteosynthesis of intraarticular distal radius fractures. Oper Orthop Traumatol 28:279–290. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00064-016-0448-6

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  38. Pillukat T, Fuhrmann R, Windolf J, van Schoonhoven J (2014) Arthroscopy of the distal radioulnar joint. Oper Orthop Traumatol 26:547–555. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00064-014-0312-5

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  39. Rampoldi M, Marsico S (2007) Complications of volar plating of distal radius fractures. Acta Orthop Belg 73:714–719

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  40. McQueen MM, Hajducka C, Court-Brown CM (1996) Redisplaced unstable fractures of the distal radius: a prospective randomised comparison of four methods of treatment. J Bone Joint Surg 78:404–409

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  41. Lutz K, Yeoh KM, MacDermid JC et al (2014) Complications associated with operative versus nonsurgical treatment of distal radius fractures in patients aged 65 years and older. J Hand Surg Am 39:1280–1286. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.04.018

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  42. Weil NL, El Moumni M, Rubinstein SM et al (2017) Routine follow-up radiographs for distal radius fractures are seldom clinically substantiated. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 137:1187–1191. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-017-2743-6

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  43. Terzis A, Koehler S, Sebald J, Sauerbier M (2020) Ulnar shortening osteotomy as a treatment of symptomatic ulnar impaction syndrome after malunited distal radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03374-x

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  44. Spies CKG, Langer M, Müller L et al (2020) Distal radioulnar joint instability: current concepts of treatment. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03371-0

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  45. Krimmer H, Schandl R, Wolters R (2020) Corrective osteotomy after malunited distal radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03370-1

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  46. Keuchel-Strobl T, Quadlbauer S, Jurkowitsch J et al (2020) Salvage procedure after malunited distal radius fractures and management of pain and stiffness. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03369-8

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  47. Bentohami A, De Burlet K, De Korte N et al (2014) Complications following volar locking plate fixation for distal radial fractures: a systematic review. J Hand Surg Eur 39:745–754. https://doi.org/10.1177/1753193413511936

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  48. Johnson NA, Cutler L, Dias JJ et al (2014) Complications after volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures. Injury 45:528–533. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.injury.2013.10.003

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  49. Tarallo L, Mugnai R, Zambianchi F et al (2013) Volar plate fixation for the treatment of distal radius fractures: analysis of adverse events. J Orthop Trauma 27:740–745. https://doi.org/10.1097/BOT.0b013e3182913fc5

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  50. Satake H, Hanaka N, Honma R et al (2016) Complications of distal radius fractures treated by volar locking plate fixation. Orthopedics 39:e893–e896. https://doi.org/10.3928/01477447-20160517-05

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  51. Thorninger R, Madsen ML, Wæver D et al (2017) Complications of volar locking plating of distal radius fractures in 576 patients with 3.2 years follow-up. Injury 48:1104–1109. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.injury.2017.03.008

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  52. Landgren M, Abramo A, Geijer M et al (2017) Fragment-specific fixation versus volar locking plates in primarily nonreducible or secondarily redisplaced distal radius fractures: a randomized controlled study. J Hand Surg Am 42:156–165.e1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2016.12.001

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  53. Azad A, Kang HP, Alluri RK et al (2019) Epidemiological and treatment trends of distal radius fractures across multiple age groups. J Wrist Surg 8:305–311. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-1685205

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  54. Li Y, Zhou Y, Zhang X et al (2019) Incidence of complications and secondary procedure following distal radius fractures treated by volar locking plate (VLP). J Orthop Surg Res 14:295. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-019-1344-1

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  55. Drobetz H, Kutscha-Lissberg E (2003) Osteosynthesis of distal radial fractures with a volar locking screw plate system. Int Orthop 27:1–6. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-002-0393-x

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  56. Wright TW, Horodyski M, Smith DW (2005) Functional outcome of unstable distal radius fractures: ORIF with a volar fixed-angle tine plate versus external fixation. J Hand Surg Am 30:289–299. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2004.11.014

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  57. Grewal R, Perey B, Wilmink M, Stothers K (2005) A randomized prospective study on the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures: open reduction and internal fixation with dorsal plating versus mini open reduction, percutaneous fixation, and external fixation. J Hand Surg Am 30:764–772. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2005.04.019

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  58. Rozental TD, Blazar PE (2006) Functional outcome and complications after volar plating for dorsally displaced, unstable fractures of the distal radius. J Hand Surg Am 31:359–365. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2005.10.010

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  59. Chung KC, Watt AJ, Kotsis SV et al (2006) Treatment of unstable distal radial fractures with the volar locking plating system. J Bone Jt Surg 88:2687–2694. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.E.01298

    Article  Google Scholar 

  60. Ward CM, Kuhl TL, Adams BD (2011) Early complications of volar plating of distal radius fractures and their relationship to surgeon experience. Hand 6:185–189. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11552-010-9313-5

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  61. Soong M, Earp BE, Bishop G et al (2011) Volar locking plate implant prominence and flexor tendon rupture. J Bone Jt Surg 93:328–335. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.J.00193

    Article  Google Scholar 

  62. Richard MJ, Wartinbee DA, Riboh J et al (2011) Analysis of the complications of palmar plating versus external fixation for fractures of the distal radius. J Hand Surg Am 36:1614–1620. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.06.030

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  63. Lameijer CM, Ten Duis HJ, Vroling D et al (2018) Prevalence of posttraumatic arthritis following distal radius fractures in non-osteoporotic patients and the association with radiological measurements, clinician and patient-reported outcomes. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 138:1699–1712. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-018-3046-2

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  64. Le ZS, Kan SL, Su LX, Wang B (2015) Meta-analysis for dorsally displaced distal radius fracture fixation: Volar locking plate versus percutaneous Kirschner wires. J Orthop Surg Res. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-015-0252-2

    Article  Google Scholar 

  65. Orimo H, Ito H, Suzuki T et al (2006) Reviewing the definition of elderly. Geriatr Gerontol Int 6:149–158. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1447-0594.2006.00341.x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  66. Chung KC, Squitieri L, Kim HM (2008) Comparative outcomes study using the volar locking plating system for distal radius fractures in both young adults and adults older than 60 years. J Hand Surg Am 33:809–819. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.02.016

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  67. Ring D, Jupiter JB (2005) Treatment of osteoporotic distal radius fractures. Osteopor Int 16:80–84

    Article  Google Scholar 

  68. Arora R, Lutz M, Fritz D et al (2005) Palmar locking plate for treatment of unstable dorsal dislocated distal radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 125:399–404. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-005-0820-8

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  69. Giannoudis PV, Schneider E (2006) Principles of fixation of osteoporotic fractures. J Bone Jt Surg 88:1272–1278

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  70. Wall LB, Brodt MD, Silva MJ et al (2012) The effects of screw length on stability of simulated osteoporotic distal radius fractures fixed with volar locking plates. J Hand Surg Am 37:446–453. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.12.013

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  71. Protopsaltis TS, Ruch DS (2008) Volar approach to distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 33:958–965. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.04.018

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  72. Alter TH, Sandrowski K, Gallant G et al (2019) Complications of volar plating of distal radius fractures: a systematic review. J Wrist Surg 8:255–262. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0038-1667304

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  73. Brüske J, Niedźwiedź Z, Bednarski M, Zyluk A (2002) Acute carpal tunnel syndrome after distal radius fractures–long term results of surgical treatment with decompression and external fixator application. Chir Narzadow Ruchu Ortop Pol 67:47–53

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  74. Weschenfelder W, Friedel R, Hofmann GO, Lenz M (2019) Acute atraumatic carpal tunnel syndrome due to flexor tendon rupture following palmar plate osteosynthesis in a patient taking rivaroxaban. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 139:435–438. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-019-03116-8

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  75. Schermann H, Kadar A, Dolkart O et al (2018) Repeated closed reduction attempts of distal radius fractures in the emergency department. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 138:591–596. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-018-2904-2

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  76. Niver GE, Ilyas AM (2012) Carpal tunnel syndrome after distal radius fracture. Orthop Clin North Am 43:521–527

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  77. Dyer G, Lozano-Calderon S, Gannon C et al (2008) Predictors of acute carpal tunnel syndrome associated with fracture of the distal radius. J Hand Surg Am 33:1309–1313. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.04.012

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  78. Huang K, Pun WK, Coleman S (1998) Entrapment and transection of the median nerve associated with greenstick fractures of the forearm: case report and review of the literature. J Trauma Inj Infect Crit Care 44:1101–1102

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  79. Sumner JM, Khuri SM (1984) Entrapment of the median nerve and flexor pollicis longus tendon in an epiphyseal fracture-dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint: a case report. J Hand Surg Am 9:711–714. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0363-5023(84)80019-2

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  80. Lutz K, Yeoh KM, Macdermid JC et al (2014) Complications associated with operative versus nonsurgical treatment of distal radius fractures in patients aged 65 years and older. J Hand Surg Am 39:1280–1286. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.04.018

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  81. Hinchcliff K, Volk I, Ivanova X, Szabo R (2018) Abstract: how distal radius volar plate design impacts force on the flexor tendons. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open 6:60. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.GOX.0000546796.51264.2a

    Article  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  82. Kara A, Celik H, Bankaoglu M et al (2016) Ultrasonic evaluation of the flexor pollicis longus tendon following volar plate fixation for distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 41:374–380. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2015.11.022

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  83. Gologan RE, Koeck M, Suda AJ, Obertacke U (2019) %3e 10-year outcome of dislocated radial fractures with concomitant intracarpal lesions as proven by MRI and CT. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 139:877–881. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-019-03186-8

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  84. Schlickum L, Quadlbauer S, Pezzei C et al (2019) Three-dimensional kinematics of the flexor pollicis longus tendon in relation to the position of the FPL plate and distal radius width. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 139:269–279. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-018-3081-z

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  85. Stepan JG, Marshall DC, Wessel LE et al (2019) The effect of plate design on the flexor pollicis longus tendon after volar locked plating of distal radial fractures. J Bone Jt Surg 101:1586–1592. https://doi.org/10.2106/jbjs.18.01087

    Article  Google Scholar 

  86. Kambouroglou GK, Axelrod TS (1998) Complications of the AO/ASIF titanium distal radius plate system (pi plate) in internal fixation of the distal radius: a brief report. J Hand Surg Am 23:737–741. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0363-5023(98)80063-4

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  87. Hove LM, Nilsen PT, Furnes O et al (1997) Open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intraarticular fractures of the distal radius. 31 patients followed for 3–7 years. Acta Orthop Scand 68:59–63. https://doi.org/10.3109/17453679709003977

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  88. Figl M, Mayer M, Lederer S et al (2011) Extensor pollicis longus rupture after distal radius fracture: Results of reconstruction by transposition of the extensor indicis tendon and postoperative dynamic splinting. Wien Klin Wochenschr 123:485–487. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00508-011-0038-4

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  89. Al-Rashid M, Theivendran K, Craigen MAC (2006) Delayed ruptures of the extensor tendon secondary to the use of volar locking compression plates for distal radial fractures. J Bone Jt Surg 88:1610–1612. https://doi.org/10.1302/0301-620X.88B12.17696

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  90. Bezuhly M, Sparkes GL, Higgins A et al (2007) Immediate thumb extension following extensor indicis proprius-to-extensor pollicis longus tendon transfer using the wide-awake approach. Plast Reconstr Surg 119:1507–1512. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.prs.0000256071.00235.d0

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  91. Riddell DM (1963) Spontaneous rupture of the extensor pollicis longus. J Bone Jt Surg Br 45:506–510. https://doi.org/10.1302/0301-620X.45B3.506

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  92. Ozer K, Toker S (2011) Dorsal tangential view of the wrist to detect screw penetration to the dorsal cortex of the distal radius after volar fixed-angle plating. Hand 6:190–193. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11552-010-9316-2

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  93. Klug RA, Press CM, Gonzalez MH (2007) Rupture of the flexor pollicis longus tendon after volar fixed-angle plating of a distal radius fracture: a case report. J Hand Surg Am 32:984–988. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.05.006

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  94. Kaiser P, Gruber H, Loth F et al (2019) Positioning of a volar locking plate with a central flexor pollicis longus tendon notch in distal radius fractures. J Wrist Surg. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-1694718

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  95. Gabl M, Arora R, Klauser AS, Schmidle G (2016) Characteristics of secondary arthrofibrosis after intra-articular distal radius fracture. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 136:1181–1188. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-016-2490-0

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  96. Simic PM, Robison J, Gardner MJ et al (2006) Treatment of distal radius fractures with a low-profile dorsal plating system: an outcomes assessment. J Hand Surg Am 31:382–386. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2005.10.016

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  97. Kamath AF, Zurakowski D, Day CS (2006) Low-profile dorsal plating for dorsally angulated distal radius fractures: an outcomes study. J Hand Surg Am 31:1061–1067. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2006.05.008

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  98. Herisson O, Delaroche C, Maillot-Roy S et al (2017) Comparison of lateral and skyline fluoroscopic views for detection of prominent screws in distal radius fractures plating: results of an ultrasonographic study. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 137:1357–1362. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-017-2759-y

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  99. Crönlein M, Zyskowski M, Beirer M et al (2017) Using an anatomically preshaped low-profile locking plate system leads to reliable results in comminuted radial head fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 137:789–795. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-017-2693-z

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  100. Krimmer H, Pessenlehner C, Hasselbacher K et al (2004) Palmar fixed angle plating systems for instable distal radius fractures. Unfallchirurg 107:460–467. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00113-004-0794-y

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  101. Mehling I, Meier M, Schlör U, Krimmer H (2007) Multidirectional palmar fixed-angle plate fixation for unstable distal radius fracture. Handchir Mikrochir Plast Chir 39:29–33. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2007-964933

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  102. Kawasaki K, Nemoto T, Inagaki K et al (2014) Variable-angle locking plate with or without double-tiered subchondral support procedure in the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fracture. J Orthop Traumatol 15:271–274. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10195-014-0292-0

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  103. Brunner A, Siebert C, Stieger C et al (2015) The dorsal tangential X-ray view to determine dorsal screw penetration during volar plating of distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 40:27–33. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.10.021

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  104. Sudeck P (1902) Ueber die akute (trophoneurotische) Knochenatrophie nach Entzündungen und Traumen der Extremitäten. Dtsch Medizinische Wochenschrift 28:336–338. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0029-1203535

    Article  Google Scholar 

  105. Dijkstra PU, Groothoff JW, Ten Duis HJ, Geertzen JHB (2003) Incidence of complex regional pain syndrome type I after fractures of the distal radius. Eur J Pain 7:457–462. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1090-3801(03)00015-6

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  106. Puchalski P, Zyluk A (2005) Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 after fractures of the distal radius: a prospective study of the role of psychological factors. J Hand Surg Am 30:574–580. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsb.2005.06.023

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  107. Roh YH, Lee BK, Noh JH et al (2014) Factors associated with complex regional pain syndrome type I in patients with surgically treated distal radius fracture. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-014-2094-5

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  108. Jellad A, Salah S, ZBS, Frih (2014) Complex regional pain syndrome type I: incidence and risk factors in patients with fracture of the distal radius. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 95:487–492. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmr.2013.09.012

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  109. Aïm F, Klouche S, Frison A et al (2017) Efficacy of vitamin C in preventing complex regional pain syndrome after wrist fracture: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Orthop Traumatol Surg Res 103:465–470. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.otsr.2016.12.021

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  110. Turner RG, Faber KJ, Athwal GS (2007) Complications of distal radius fractures. Orthop Clin North Am 38:217–228. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocl.2007.02.002

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  111. Botte MJ, Davis JL, Rose BA, Gellman H, Zinberg EM, Abrams RA (1992) Complications of smooth pin fixation of fractures and dislocations in the hand and wrist. Clin Orthop Relat Res 276:194–201

    Google Scholar 

  112. Hargreaves DG, Drew SJ, Eckersley R (2004) Kirschner wire pin tract infection rates: a randomized controlled trial between percutaneous and buried wires. J Hand Surg 29:374–376. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsb.2004.03.003

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  113. McQueen MM, Gaston P, Court-Brown CM (2000) Acute compartment syndrome. J Bone Jt Surg Br 82:200–203. https://doi.org/10.1302/0301-620X.82B2.0820200

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  114. Blakemore LC, Cooperman DR, Thompson GH et al (2000) Compartment syndrome in ipsilateral humerus and forearm fractures in children. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, Philadelphia, pp 32–38

    Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgements

We thank Rose-Marie Sedlacek for proof reading this article. Without her help, this English publication would not have been possible.

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Corresponding author

Correspondence to R. Rosenauer.

Ethics declarations

Conflict of interest

The authors, their immediate families, and any research foundations with which they are affiliated have not received any financial payments or other benefits from any commercial entity related to the subject of this article.

Ethical approval

All procedures performed in studies involving human participants were in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional research committee and with the 1964 Helsinki declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.

Additional information

Publisher's Note

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Rosenauer, R., Pezzei, C., Quadlbauer, S. et al. Complications after operatively treated distal radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 140, 665–673 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03372-z

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-020-03372-z

Keywords

Navigation