Summary
Evidence from two small retrospective cohort studies suggests that functional outcomes
may be slightly better after volar locking plates compared with regular external fixation
for distal radial fractures. Over 2 to 3 years following fixation, one study found
pain as measured by visual analog scale (VAS) was less and range of motion was significantly
better for volar locking plates. However, only retrospective cohort studies were available,
so conclusions cannot be regarded as definitive.
