Factors Associated With Reoperation After Distal Radius Nonunion Repair

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of, and factors associated with, reoperation after distal radius nonunion repair.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a multicenter academic institution and identified adult patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for distal radius nonunion between January 2005 and August 2021. Thirty-three patients were included in this study. The cohort consisted of 13 males (13/33) and had a median age of 56 years (interquartile ranges: 49-64). Median follow-up was 59 months (interquartile ranges: 23-126).

Results: Unplanned reoperations occurred in eight of 33 patients. The most common reasons for reoperation were irrigation and debridement for infection, revision surgery for persistent nonunion, and unplanned hardware removal. In total, 10 complications occurred in nine patients. The most common complications were infection and persistent nonunion; both occurred in three cases.

Conclusions: Complications after distal radius nonunion repair are common. Reoperation after distal radius nonunion repair is required in approximately one of four cases.

Type of study/level of evidence: Prognosis IV.