Metaphyseal Distal Radius Fractures

Locking Plate Versus Pins for Surgical Treatment of Posteriorly Tilted Distal Radius Fracture

The number of osteoporotic fractures, among which the fractures of the lower extremity of the radius (16 % of fractures seen in emergencies) is going to increase. Several surgical techniques are described in particular locking plates and intrafocal pinning techniques.

The aim of the study is to compare (X-ray assessments and functional outcome) these two types of treatment by using a prospective, randomised multicentric analysis.

Because an increasing number of elderly patient, the number of osteoporotic fractures, among which the fractures of the lower extremity of the radius (16 % of fractures seen in emergencies) is going to increase. Several surgical techniques exist of which in particular locking plates and intrafocal pinning.

The availability of new materials (locking plates with angular stability) seems to reduce the risks of osteosynthesis failure and seems to give more constant results: hawever, the price to pay is a more invasive technique and a superior cost. The rehabilitation seems also faster, allowing the possibility to get back the maximum of autonomy.

These clinical facts need of course to be validated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• - metaphyseal inferior radius fractures (AO classification 23A2, 23A3, 23C1, 23C2)
• age 60 years or older

Exclusion Criteria:

• open fracture
• fractures AO classification: 23A1, 23C3, 23B1, 23B2, 23B3
• polytraumatized patient
• fractures older than 15 days
• infection of the operating site
• previous osseous disease