Clinical application of multi-direction temporary Kapandji technique and volar locking plate fixation for type C distal radius fractures

Purpose: Achieving and maintaining an optimal reduction in partially or fully displaced intra-articular fractures, specifically Type C distal radius fractures, can present challenges. This study aims to retrospectively evaluate and summarize a method utilizing multi-directional temporary Kapandji technique in combination with the volar locking plate fixation for these fractures.

Method: The study involved 15 patients diagnosed with Type C distal radius fractures who underwent surgery between January 2024 and April 2024. The procedure incorporated a multi-directional temporary Kapandji technique, followed by stable osteosynthesis using a volar locking plate system. The functional outcomes were assessed after 4 (2-6) months of follow-up using the modified Mayo wrist scoring system (MMWS). The MMWS is a rating system used to evaluate wrist function and pain, including pain, motion, grip strength.

Results: All the patients incision healed within 2 weeks. All the fractures had uneventful union within 8-12 weeks. Based on the modified Mayo wrist scoring (MMWS) system, most patients showed good to excellent functional recovery.

Conclusion: This reduction method proved to be both simple and replicable, enabling satisfactory alignment with minimal force. The volar locking plate system provided rigid and stable fixation.