Volar Plating or External Fixation of Dorsally Displaced Fractures of the Distal Radius?

Volar Plating or External Fixation of Dorsally Displaced Fractures of the Distal Radius? A Prospective Randomized Study

Promising results have been reported after volar locked plating of unstable dorsally displaced fractures of the distal radius. It offers stable fixation and early mobilization. The investigators' aim is to test if volar locked plating results in better patient-perceived, objective functional and radiological outcomes compared to the less invasive external fixation that has been the standard operation for decades.

Inclusion Criteria:

• An acute unilateral Colles' fracture (AO class A and C1) with a dorsal angulation of more than 20 degrees or radial shortening of 4 mm or more, AND
• Patient aged 20-70 years with no previous fracture of either wrist.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Bilateral fractures,
• Other current injury to the upper extremities,
• Dementia, OR
• Severe comminution or too small distal fragment to allow plating.