Background: Despite the recent trend toward internal fixation of distal radial fractures, few randomized trials have examined whether volar plate fixation is superior to other stabilization techniques. The purpose of the present study was to compare (1) open reduction and internal fixation with use of a volar plate and early mobilization with (2) percutaneous fixation and casting or external fixation for the treatment of dorsally displaced unstable extra-articular and simple intra-articular fractures of the distal part of the radius, with a specific emphasis on early functional recovery.
Methods: A prospective randomized study was performed at two institutions. Forty-five consecutive patients with a displaced, unstable fracture of the distal part of the radius were randomized to closed reduction and pin fixation (n = 22) or open reduction and internal fixation with a volar plate (n = 23). Clinical and radiographic assessments were conducted at six, nine, and twelve weeks after surgery and at one year. Outcome was measured on the basis of range of motion; grip and pinch strength; and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores. A questionnaire was used to determine patient satisfaction, and a detailed analysis of complications was performed.
Results: Patients in the open reduction and internal fixation group had superior Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores at six, nine, and twelve weeks. At six weeks, the average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 27 in the open reduction and internal fixation group as compared with 53 in the closed reduction and pin fixation group (p < 0.01). At nine and twelve weeks, patients in the open reduction and internal fixation group continued to have lower scores (17 compared with 39 [p < 0.01] and 11 compared with 26 [p = 0.01], respectively). At one year, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores. Patients in the open reduction and internal fixation group had greater range of motion and strength than patients in the closed reduction and pin fixation group at six and nine weeks, and more patients in the open reduction and internal fixation group were very satisfied with the overall wrist function and motion. Eight complications occurred, two in the open reduction and internal fixation group and six in the closed reduction and pin fixation group.
Conclusions: Both closed reduction with percutaneous pin fixation and open reduction with internal fixation with use of a volar plate are effective methods for the treatment of dorsally displaced, unstable, extra-articular or simple intra-articular fractures of the distal part of the radius. Better functional results can be expected in the early postoperative period in association with open reduction and internal fixation, and this form of treatment should be considered for patients requiring a faster return to function after the injury.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00828685.