Comparison of external fixation, locking and non-locking palmar plating for unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly

This study compares the effectiveness of locking and non-locking palmar plating and external fixation for unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly. In a retrospective match-paired study, 45 patients aged 50 to 70 years who underwent surgery for C1/C2 distal radius fractures were evaluated. The surgical procedures were external fixation or plating with locking or non-locking palmar plates. Radiological and functional outcomes were assessed. Outcomes according to Gartland and Werley, Martini and the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire were compared. The locking palmar plate fixation method demonstrated significantly better radiological and functional results in comparison to external fixation and the non-locking palmar plating methods. The subjective assessment of plate fixation proved to be better than that of external fixation. Complications and reoperations were fewer for both plate fixation groups. Our data indicates that most displaced intra-articular distal radius fractures can be treated successfully with the locking palmar plate.