Distal Radius Fractures - Arthroscopically Assisted Management

Abstract

During the last years there have been considerable changes in the assessment and the management of distal radius fractures. In many patients, conservative treatment has shown poor functional results, despite satisfactory radiological findings. This is due to a remarkably high number of concomitant carpal lesions occurring together with distal intraarticular radius fractures. Using wrist arthroscopy in the management of these fractures, both the intraarticular fracture pattern can be exactly evaluated and concomitant carpal lesions like tears of the intrinsic ligaments of the proximal carpal row, lesions of the TFCC and free intraarticular bodies can be diagnosed and treated, at the same time. The reduction of the radius fracture is checked by direct view into the wrist joint, subsequently the fracture is stabilised by percutaneousely implanted K-wires or cannulated screws. At the same time, it is possible to perform temporary arthrodesis of the SL, SC and LT joints, or repair the TFCC. Using this technique, 30 patients have been treated during the last years. 23 of themÂ’were followed up at an average of 32.5 months (12 to 48 months) and were evaluated according to the point score system of Cooney. In 16 patients, we found excellent or good results, in 4 patients we found satisfactory results and in 3 patients poor results were present at the time of follow-up.

Distal radius fractures - Wrist arthroscopy - Intrinsic ligaments - TFCC

References

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