J Wrist Surg 2016; 05(02): 147-151
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1570462
Emerging Technologies and New Technological Concepts
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Four-Corner Concept: CT-Based Assessment of Fracture Patterns in Distal Radius

P. R. G. Brink
1   Department of Traumatology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
,
D. A. Rikli
2   Department of Traumatology, Universitätsspital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

19 August 2015

24 November 2015

Publication Date:
25 January 2016 (online)

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Abstract

Operative treatment using plate fixation is an important adjunct in the treatment of distal radius fractures, although the evidence for its superiority over other modalities remains limited. We propose a new concept for fractures of the distal radius, based on the three-column model of the distal radius, and on the expanding knowledge about the different fracture patterns obtained by evaluation of the distal radius by computed tomographic (CT) scan. All fracture types can be characterized by subdividing the wrist joint into four corners, each with its own characteristics in terms of mobility, stability, and transfer of forces in the intact distal radius. Recognition of the specific fracture types based on this four-corner concept enables a tailored approach to treatment.