• Arvind D Nana, Atul Joshi, and David M Lichtman.
• Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, JPS Health Network, Fort Worth, TX 76104, USA.
• J Am Acad Orthop Sur. 2005 May 1; 13 (3): 159-71.

AbstractDistal radius fractures are common injuries that can be treated by a variety of methods. Restoration of the distal radius anatomy within established guidelines yields the best short- and long-term results. Guidelines for acceptable reduction are (1) radial shortening < 5 mm, (2) radial inclination > 15 degrees , (3) sagittal tilt on lateral projection between 15 degrees dorsal tilt and 20 degrees volar tilt, (4) intra-articular step-off < 2 mm of the radiocarpal joint, and (5) articular incongruity < 2 mm of the sigmoid notch of the distal radius. Treatment options range from closed reduction and immobilization to open reduction with plates and screws; options are differentiated based on their ability to reinforce and stabilize the three columns of the distal radius and ulna. Plating allows direct restoration of the anatomy, stable internal fixation, a decreased period of immobilization, and early return of wrist function. Buttress plates reduce and stabilize vertical shear intra-articular fractures through an antiglide effect, where-as conventional and locking plates address metaphyseal comminution and/or preserve articular congruity/reduction. With conventional and locking plates, intra-articular fractures are directly reduced; with buttress plates, the plate itself helps reduce the intra-articular fracture. Complications associated with plating include tendon irritation or rupture and the need for plate removal.

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