J Wrist Surg 2019; 08(03): 255-262
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1667304
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Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Complications of Volar Plating of Distal Radius Fractures: A Systematic Review

Todd H. Alter
1   Department of Hand and Wrist Surgery, Rothman Institute at the Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
,
Kristin Sandrowski
1   Department of Hand and Wrist Surgery, Rothman Institute at the Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
,
Gregory Gallant
1   Department of Hand and Wrist Surgery, Rothman Institute at the Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
,
Moody Kwok
1   Department of Hand and Wrist Surgery, Rothman Institute at the Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
,
Asif M. Ilyas
1   Department of Hand and Wrist Surgery, Rothman Institute at the Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
› Author Affiliations
Funding None.
Further Information

Address for correspondence

Todd H. Alter, BS
Rothman Institute at the Thomas Jefferson University
925 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Publication History

16 April 2018

15 June 2018

Publication Date:
13 August 2018 (online)

 

Abstract

Background In recent years, there has been an increased utilization of volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures (DRFs). However, reported long-term complication rates with this technique remain unclear.

Purpose The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the pooled incidence of complications associated with volar locking plating of DRF.

Methods A search of the Scopus database was performed from 2006 through 2016. Studies were considered eligible if they had a diagnosis of a DRF and were treated with a volar locking plate with an average of 12 months or longer follow-up.

Results The literature search yielded 633 citations, with 55 eligible for inclusion in the review (total n = 3,911). An overall complication rate of 15% was identified, with 5% representing major complications requiring reoperation. The most common complication types identified included nerve dysfunction (5.7%), tendon injury (3.5%), and hardware-related issues (1.6%).

Conclusion Nerve complications were reportedly higher than tendon and hardware-related complications combined. However, despite varying complication rates in the literature, this systematic review reveals an overall low complication rate associated with volar locking plating of DRF.


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Distal radius fractures remain one of the most common orthopaedic injuries.[1] [2] [3] However, despite this high incidence, there remains no consensus regarding the optimal treatment strategy. Common treatment options currently include closed reduction, closed reduction with percutaneous pinning, intramedullary fixation, external fixation, and various open reduction and internal fixation strategies.[4] [5] [6] [7] Despite the various available treatment strategies, open reduction and internal fixation with dorsal and volar plates has seen a steady increase in use in recent years due to purported faster functional recovery and often improved radiographic alignment.[4] [8] [9] In particular, over the last decade there has been an increased utilization of volar locked plating of distal radius fractures.[5] [8] [10] [11] [12]

The most commonly reported complications with this technique can be divided into the following categories: nerve related, tendon related, and hardware related. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common nerve-related complication, although this frequently occurs with distal radius fracture regardless of treatment modality.[13] Vulnerable tendons with volar locking plates include both extensor tendons (extensor pollicis longus, extensor digitorum communis, extensor indicis)[14] [15] and flexor tendons (flexor pollicis longus, flexor digitorum profundus),[16] with purportedly lower overall rates compared with dorsal plates.[17] Hardware-related complications include malunion, screw loosening, and loss of reduction, among others. In addition, complications such as infection, hematoma, and wound dehiscence can occur with any surgical procedure, as well as many other less frequently reported sequelae.

In spite of the rising utilization of this technique, our understanding of long-term complication rates associated with volar locking plating of distal radius fractures remains limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review to investigate incidence of complications following volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures.

Methods

A search of the Scopus database, which incorporates PubMed and Medline, was performed from 2006 through 2016. This timeframe was selected to focus on a period where specifically locked, rather than nonlocked, volar plating was more ubiquitous. The database was searched using the following search terms: volar, palmar, Colles fracture, Barton fracture, Smith fracture, distal radius fracture, distal radial fracture, or fracture of distal radius. Only articles written in English were included.

Studies were considered eligible if they met the following criteria: (1) patients had a diagnosis of a distal radius fracture, irrespective of diagnostic criteria, etiology, associated pathology, sex, or age; (2) patients were treated with a volar locking plate. Studies were excluded if they were (1) case reports; (2) reviews; (3) animal studies; (4) cadaveric studies; (5) complication data unavailable or not presented; (6) inadequate plate-type information; (7) dorsal plate fixation; (8) additional percutaneous pin fixation augmentation; (9) nonlocking volar plates; and (10) follow-up less than 12 months ([Fig. 1]).

Zoom Image
Fig. 1 Flow diagram indicating results of the literature search and study selection procedure.

Each included study was independently analyzed by two different authors (T.H.A. and A.M.I.). The following data were extracted and recorded: study characteristics (first author, year of publication, country of origin); fracture characteristics, implant type; sample size; mean age; sex distribution; duration of follow-up; study design; number of complications. A complication was defined as an adverse treatment event that was reported by the authors of the study. The main outcome measure of the systematic review was the overall rate of complications. Complications were divided into minor and major complications, with a major complication defined as any adverse event postoperatively requiring reoperation during the study follow-up period.


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Results

The literature search identified 633 citations, of which 55 were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review (total n = 3,911).[4] [6] [9] [10] [13] [18] [19] [20] [21] [22] [23] [24] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] [36] [37] [38] [39] [40] [41] [42] [43] [44] [45] [46] [47] [48] [49] [50] [51] [52] [53] [54] [55] [56] [57] [58] [59] [60] [61] [62] [63] [64] [65] [66] [67] The average age was 57, with a range from 13 to 94. Men accounted for 36% of all patients. Average follow-up was 20.6 months, with a range from 6 to 90 months. The overall complication rate identified was 15%. Major complications requiring reoperation accounted for 5%, and minor complications consisted of 10% ([Table 1]).

Table 1

Principal study characteristics with major and minor complication rates by study

Reference

Year

Journal

Study design

Male (%)

No. of patients

Mean age ± SD (range) (y)

Mean follow-up ± SD (range) (mo)

AO Class A (%)

AO Class B (%)

AO Class C (%)

Plate type

Complication rate

Minor (%)

Major[a] (%)

Arora et al[4]

2009

J Orthop Trauma

Retrospective

32

53

75.9 ± 4.8 (70–89)

51.5 (12–64)

53

0

47

Fixed

4

9

Arora et al[10]

2011

J Bone Joint Surg Am

Prospective

22

36

75.9 (65–88)

12

28

0

72

Fixed

8

28

Arora et al[18]

2007

J Orthop Trauma

Retrospective

18

114

57.4

14.9 ± 5.1 (12–27)

48

0

52

Fixed

12

15

Brennan et al[19]

2016

Injury

Retrospective

40

151

47.9

32.2 (12–60)

44

37

19

Fixed

8

7

Chung et al[20]

2008

J Hand Surg

Prospective

40

55

47.6 (20–83)

12

44

15

42

Fixed

18

2

Chung et al[21]

2006

J Bone Joint Surg Am

Prospective

43

87

48.9 ± 16.7 (18–83)

12

40

9

51

Fixed

10

0

Figl et al[22]

2010

J Trauma

Prospective

12

58

79 (75–92)

13 (12–15)

66

3

31

Variable angle

5

2

Figl et al[23]

2009

Arch Orthop Trauma Surg

Prospective

38

80

58.4 (23–88)

12 (12–24)

45

13

43

Variable angle

15

0

Gruber et al[24]

2008

J Orthop Trauma

Prospective

33

55

60 (20–92)

29 ± 7

0

0

100

Fixed

4

4

Gereli et al[25]

2014

Arch Orthop Trauma Surg

Prospective

55

31

44 (18–60)

32 (12–90)

100

0

0

Fixed

0

3

Gereli et al[26]

2010

Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc

Retrospective

69

16

49 ± 16

26.1 ± 6.1

0

0

100

Fixed

0

0

Goehre et al[27]

2014

J Hand Surg: Eur Vol

Prospective

21

71.3 ± 5.7

12

86

0

14

Fixed

14

0

Gogna et al[28]

2013

ChinJ Traumatol

Prospective

81

27

30.12 ± 11.48 (19–52)

26.8 (22–34)

26

0

74

Fixed

7

0

Gradl et al[29]

2014

Injury

Prospective

9

55

61.4 ± 14

24

100

0

0

Fixed

24

5

Gradl et al[30]

2013

Arch Orthop Trauma Surg

Prospective

15

52

63 (18–88)

12

56

0

44

Fixed

12

8

Grewal et al[31]

2011

J Hand Surg

Prospective

77

18

58.0 ± 9.9

12

65

0

35

Fixed

11

11

Gruber et al[32]

2010

J Bone Joint Surg Am

Prospective

50

54

63 ± 18

72

0

0

100

Fixed

4

4

Hakimi et al[9]

2010

J Hand Surg: Eur Vol

Retrospective

34

77

62 (18–94)

12 (10–15)

16

0

84

Mixed[b]

12

1

Hollevoet et al[33]

2011

Acta Orthop Belg

Prospective

11

20

67

19 (12–26)

Fixed

15

15

Karantana et al[34]

2013

J Bone Joint Surg Am

Prospective

64

(18–73)

12

41

56

3

Fixed

22

3

Kato et al[35]

2014

Nagoya J Med Sci

Prospective

50

100

56.7 (20–84)

18

16

0

84

Fixed

24

3

Kawasaki et al[36]

2014

J Orthop Traumatol

Retrospective

22

49

59.9 (23–85)

20.2 (12–56)

0

0

100

Variable angle

4

0

Khamaisy et al[37]

2011

Injury

Retrospective

46

91

52.7 (18–74)

12

3

15

81

Fixed

2

1

Knight et al[38]

2010

Injury

Prospective

13

40

59 (18–84)

13.6 (6–24)

43

0

58

Fixed

25

40

Konstantinidis et al[39]

2010

Arch Orthop Trauma Surg

Prospective

43

40

54.4 (19–86)

16.9 ± 5.2 (12–31)

0

0

100

Fixed

30

3

Kumbaraci et al[40]

2014

Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol

Retrospective

75

34

48 ± 16

49.6 ± 20 (12–72)

0

0

100

Fixed

9

0

Kwan et al[41]

2011

Int Orthop

Prospective

55

75

51 (13–82)

24

18

7

75

Fixed

12

3

Lattmann et al[42]

2008

J Hand Surg

Prospective

20

91

64 ± 17 (24–91)

12

37

9

54

Fixed

9

4

Lattmann et al[43]

2011

J Trauma

Prospective

24

228

62 ± 18 (18–96)

12

42

5

53

Fixed

12

3

Lee et al[44]

2012

Int Orthop

Retrospective

31

50–70

19.2 ± 7.1

55

0

45

Fixed

3

0

Marlow et al[45]

2012

Acta Orthop Belg

Retrospective

24

65

57.7 (17.5–92)

17.2 (7–20)

23

8

69

Variable angle

5

3

42

56.1 (18.6–87)

32.5 (14–54)

29

7

64

Fixed

0

12

Matschke et al[46]

2011

Injury

Prospective

31

118

57.1 (20–80)

24

34

8

58

Fixed

11

1

Matschke et al[47]

2011

J Orthop Trauma

Retrospective

33

266

54.3 ± 15.1

24

41

7

52

Fixed

12

4

Mellstrand Navarro et al[48]

2016

J Orthop Trauma

Prospective

10

70

63 (50–74)

12

43

0

57

Fixed

41

14

Minegishi et al[49]

2011

Ups J Med Sci

Retrospective

25

15

64.4 (34–76)

15.5 (12–24)

7

0

93

Fixed

13

7

Osada et al[50]

2008

J Hand Surg

Prospective

33

49

60 (17–86)

12

12

0

88

Fixed

0

2

Phadnis et al[51]

2012

J Orthop Surg

Retrospective

28

183

62.4 ± 17.9 (16–93)

30 (13–53)

51

10

39

Variable angle

13

2

Plate et al[52]

2015

J Hand Surg

Prospective

37

30

55 ± 16

24

100

0

0

Fixed

7

3

Rampoldi and Marsico[13]

2007

Acta Orthop Belg

Retrospective

46

90

44 (21–86)

12

31

3

66

Fixed

1

7

Rampoldi et al[53]

2011

J Orthop Traumatol

Prospective

71

21

41 (24–73)

13 (9–18)

57

0

43

Fixed

5

5

Roh et al[6]

2015

J Hand Surg

Prospective

67

36

54.4 ± 10.9

12

0

0

100

Mixed[b]

17

0

Rozental et al[54]

2009

J Bone Joint Surg Am

Prospective

30

23

51 (19–77)

11 ± 2

43

0

57

Fixed

9

0

Sonderegger et al[55]

2010

Arch Orthop Trauma Surg

Prospective

34

62

57.9 (20–89)

14.7 (12–14)

34

0

66

Variable angle

6

15

Souer et al[56]

2010

J Hand Surg

Retrospective

29

62

58 (23–78)

24

100

0

0

Fixed

6

2

Sügün et al[57]

2012

Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc

Retrospective

52

46

48.7 (24–87)

19 (6–43)

0

0

100

4

2[c]

Takada et al[58]

2012

Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg

Retrospective

30

20

48 (21–76)

13.8 (12–24)

20

15

65

0

0

Tarallo et al[59]

2013

J Orthop Trauma

Retrospective

39

303

56 (18–87)

56.4

10

31

59

Variable angle

1

5

Vlček et al[60]

2014

Bosn J Basic Med Sci

Retrospective

30

50

48.5 (22–77)

12

18

0

82

Variable angle

12

2

Wei et al[61]

2009

J Bone Joint Surg Am

Prospective

25

12

61 ± 18

12

25

0

75

Fixed

17

0

Wei et al[62]

2014

Indian J Orthop

Prospective

32

22

65 (37–80)

12 (10–18)

36

50

14

Fixed

18

0

Wichlas et al[63]

2014

J Orthop Traumatol

Retrospective

41

225

54.6 ± 17.4

33.2 ± 17.2

36

7

56

Fixed

1

2

Wilcke et al[64]

2011

Acta Orthop

Prospective

24

33

55 (20–69)

12

79

0

21

Fixed

12

9

Williksen et al[65]

2013

J Hand Surg

Prospective

20

52

54 (20–84)

12

29

0

71

Fixed

17

12

Yu et al[66]

2011

J Hand Surg

Retrospective

38

47

56 (19–84)

38 (12–72)

11

21

68

Fixed

19

11

Zenke et al[67]

2011

J Orthop Trauma

Retrospective

29

66

63.5 ± 16.8 (25–94)

22.7 ± 9.0 (12–41)

64

0

36

Fixed

5

2

Total

3,911

Total

10

5

Abbreviations: AO, Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen; CTS, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome; CRPS, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.


a Complications requiring reoperation with the exception of CTS, CRPS, and patient request.


b Study characteristics and complication rates not separated by plate type.


c Eleven cases of extensor tenosynovitis were asymptomatic and detected only by ultrasound.[57]


The most common complications included nerve dysfunction (5.7%), tendon injury (3.5%), and hardware problems (1.6%; [Table 2]). Other complications in descending order of incidence included infection, wound complications, and refracture or loss of reduction accounting for 3.9%. A major complication was defined as one requiring reoperation, with the exception of carpal tunnel syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, and plate removal by patient request. The most common major complication was tendon rupture, with extensor being more common than flexor tendon rupture ([Table 3]).

Table 2

Most common complications

Complication type

Rate (%)

Nerve

5.70

 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

2.05

 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

1.41

 Median nerve sensitivity (no CTS)

1.25

 Paresthesia (nonspecific)

0.38

 Radial nerve neuropathy

0.20

 Median nerve damage (thenar motor)

0.15

 Paresthesia (thenar region)

0.13

 Paresthesia (cutaneous branch)

0.10

 Ulnar nerve neuropathy

0.03

Tendon

3.53

 Extensor tendon rupture

1.02

 Flexor tenosynovitis

0.69

 Tendonitis (nonspecific)

0.69

 Extensor tenosynovitis

0.59

 Flexor tendon rupture

0.33

 Tendon rupture (nonspecific)

0.13

 Intersection syndrome

0.03

 De Quervain

0.03

 Trigger finger

0.03

Hardware

1.61

 Malunion

0.61

 Screw loosening

0.33

 Loss of reduction

0.23

 Intra-articular screw

0.20

 Prominent screw

0.13

 Prominent plate

0.05

 Broken plate

0.05

Table 3

Major complications by complication type

Major complication type

No. of events

% of total patients

Tendon

Extensor tenosynovitis

19

0.49

Extensor tendon rupture

40

1.02

Flexor tenosynovitis

23

0.59

Flexor tendon rupture

13

0.33

Tendonitis (nonspecific)

8

0.20

Tendon rupture (nonspecific)

1

0.03

Tendon sheath fibroma

1

0.03

Hardware

Screw loosening

5

0.13

Intra-articular screw

4

0.10

Prominent screw

2

0.05

Prominent plate

2

0.05

Loss of reduction

5

0.13

Malunion

2

0.05

Radioulnar synostosis

1

0.03

Plate break

1

0.03

Other

Pain/Discomfort/Irritation

39

1.00

Infection

1

0.03

Nonspecific reoperations

21

0.54

Total

188

4.81

Nerve complications were most common with an overall rate of 5.7%, with postoperative carpal tunnel syndrome being the most common at 2%. Complex regional pain syndrome was reported in 1.4% of cases.

The overall tendon complication rate was 3.5% with extensor tendon rupture accounting for 1% and extensor tenosynovitis 0.6%. Flexor tendon tenosynovitis and rupture were reportedly lower at 0.7 and 0.3%, respectively. De Quervain's tenosynovitis, intersection syndrome, and trigger finger were equally low at 0.03% overall. The incidence of tendonitis and tendon rupture where the tendon was not specified was 0.7 and 0.1%, respectively.

Hardware complication rate was 1.6%, with malunion being the most common at 0.6%. Plate prominence was encountered in only 0.1% of patients, screw loosening in 0.3%, intra-articular screws in 0.2%, and prominent screws in 0.1%.


#

Discussion

The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review to investigate incidence of complications following volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures. Despite the varying overall complication rates in the literature from 0 to 60%,[4] [6] [9] [10] [13] [18] [19] [20] [21] [22] [23] [24] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] [36] [37] [38] [39] [40] [41] [42] [43] [44] [45] [46] [47] [48] [49] [50] [51] [52] [53] [54] [55] [56] [57] [58] [59] [60] [61] [62] [63] [64] [65] [66] [67] this systematic review reports an overall complication rate of 15% associated with volar locked plating of distal radius fractures, of which only 5% were considered major complications by requiring a reoperation. Much of the discrepancy in the literature was surmised to be related to the varying definitions of a “complication,” how stringent complications were reported by the authors, and how a major or minor complication was defined if at all. For instance, Mellstrand et al performed a randomized control trial comparing volar locked plating and external fixation with a high complication rate of 50.7% in the volar locking plate group and 44.6% in the external fixation group.[48] Although only one patient who underwent volar locked plating developed carpal tunnel syndrome that was treated operatively, 36.9% of patients reported some form of nerve dysfunction. However, this nerve dysfunction was most often transient requiring no additional treatment or surgery.

As illustrated in our review, several reported series identified nerve dysfunction and/or carpal tunnel syndrome as the most common complication following volar locking plate fixation. Arora et al performed a prospective randomized study between cast treatment and volar locked plating and reported an operative complication rate of 13%,[10] comparable to our review's rate. Further they found a 2.8% rate of carpal tunnel syndrome, similar to our combined 2%. Roh et al compared volar plating and external fixation and reported a complication rate following volar plating of 17%, with a rate of carpal tunnel syndrome also at 2.8%, both comparable to our reported rates.[6]

Carpal tunnel syndrome is common and endemic in the population at large, but it is also known to occur as a product of distal radius fractures in 7 to 15%[68] of cases in general, irrespective of treatment strategy. Typically, carpal tunnel syndrome following distal radius fracture is not assumed to be related to hardware, but more related to the trauma to the nerve from the fracture and/or subsequent healing with thickened bony anatomy and any residual malunion. Due to the endemic nature, we considered carpal tunnel syndrome to be a minor complication even in instances where carpal tunnel release was required. Additionally, plate removal by patient request was not considered a complication, major or minor. However, symptomatic hardware or tendon irritation due to hardware is directly related to the fixation and therefore considered a major complication if reoperation was required.

It has been hypothesized that the volar anatomy of the wrist is better suited to plating than the dorsal side due to the presence of more space and less contact between the distal radial cortex and tendons.[49] Our systematic review identified only 0.7% flexor tendon tenosynovitis and 0.3% flexor tendon rupture. While we did find low rates of flexor tendon involvement following volar locking plate fixation, there was an overall tendon complication rate of 3.8% with extensor tendon complications accounting for 1.9%. In a systematic review of tendon complications following open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fractures, Azzi et al similarly found a low incidence of tendon complications following volar plating.[69] Their systematic review reported a 7.5 versus 4.5% tenosynovitis and 1.7 versus 1.4% tendon rupture rate following dorsal plating and volar locked plating, respectively.

Further comparison of complication rates between dorsal and volar locked plating by Wichlas et al found a low complication rate in both groups with 3.6% in the volar plate and 11.7% in the dorsal plate groups.[63] They reported a low incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome at 0.44% and no tendon complications following volar locked plating. Although they found no tendon complications, implant removal was performed in 6.7% of the volar locked plate group for patients with implant-associated pain, swelling, or patient request. Whether or not persistent pain and swelling in the volar group was related to tendon irritation or truly symptomatic hardware from another source is unclear.

We found a lower hardware complication rate than expected, with the majority of complications associated with screw loosening or prominent screws. Hardware complications are likely underreported in the literature, as many nerve and tendon complication may be related to symptomatic hardware even if not explicitly stated. Arora et al found a 27% complication rate following volar locked plating with tendon complications accounting for more than half and all patients with tenosynovitis underwent early hardware removal.[18] While all cases of tenosynovitis and tendon rupture may not be associated with hardware prominence, the two are likely related and may explain the lower than expected hardware complication rate in our systematic review.

The main limitation of our systematic review is the heterogeneity of the data. Different surgical approaches, implants, and techniques for volar locked plating were utilized in these studies. Further, surgeon experience likely varied. Also, the scrutiny with which complications were noted by the authors is inherently unpredictable. Despite these limitations, this meta-analysis highlights the overall complication rates associated with volar locked plating of distal radius fractures over the past 10 years.

In short, this systematic review provides an updated review of the literature demonstrating a low tendon and hardware complication rate supporting the increased utilization of volar plating, and it also identified that nerve dysfunction is prevalent. Further investigation regarding the different types of volar plates may help elucidate the reason for varying complication rates between studies.


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Conflict of Interest

None declared.

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  • 5 Bales JG, Stern PJ. Treatment strategies of distal radius fractures. Hand Clin 2012; 28 (02) 177-184
  • 6 Roh YH, Lee BK, Baek JR, Noh JH, Gong HS, Baek GH. A randomized comparison of volar plate and external fixation for intra-articular distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 2015; 40 (01) 34-41
  • 7 Schneppendahl J, Windolf J, Kaufmann RA. Distal radius fractures: current concepts. J Hand Surg Am 2012; 37 (08) 1718-1725
  • 8 Chung KC, Shauver MJ, Birkmeyer JD. Trends in the United States in the treatment of distal radial fractures in the elderly. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2009; 91 (08) 1868-1873
  • 9 Hakimi M, Jungbluth P, Windolf J, Wild M. Functional results and complications following locking palmar plating on the distal radius: a retrospective study. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2010; 35 (04) 283-288
  • 10 Arora R, Lutz M, Deml C, Krappinger D, Haug L, Gabl M. A prospective randomized trial comparing nonoperative treatment with volar locking plate fixation for displaced and unstable distal radial fractures in patients sixty-five years of age and older. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2011; 93 (23) 2146-2153
  • 11 Cui Z, Pan J, Yu B, Zhang K, Xiong X. Internal versus external fixation for unstable distal radius fractures: an up-to-date meta-analysis. Int Orthop 2011; 35 (09) 1333-1341
  • 12 Koval KJ, Harrast JJ, Anglen JO, Weinstein JN. Fractures of the distal part of the radius. The evolution of practice over time. Where's the evidence?. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2008; 90 (09) 1855-1861
  • 13 Rampoldi M, Marsico S. Complications of volar plating of distal radius fractures. Acta Orthop Belg 2007; 73 (06) 714-719
  • 14 Zenke Y, Sakai A, Oshige T. , et al. Extensor pollicis longus tendon ruptures after the use of volar locking plates for distal radius fractures. Hand Surg 2013; 18 (02) 169-173
  • 15 Asadollahi S, Keith PP. Flexor tendon injuries following plate fixation of distal radius fractures: a systematic review of the literature. J Orthop Traumatol 2013; 14 (04) 227-234
  • 16 Zhao HL, Wang GB, Jia YQ, Zhu SC, Zhang FF, Liu HM. Comparison of risk of Carpal Tunnel syndrome in patients with distal radius fractures after 7 treatments. Med Sci Monit 2015; 21: 2837-2844
  • 17 Fowler JR, Ilyas AM. Prospective evaluation of distal radius fractures treated with variable-angle volar locking plates. J Hand Surg Am 2013; 38 (11) 2198-2203
  • 18 Arora R, Lutz M, Hennerbichler A, Krappinger D, Espen D, Gabl M. Complications following internal fixation of unstable distal radius fracture with a palmar locking-plate. J Orthop Trauma 2007; 21 (05) 316-322
  • 19 Brennan SA, Kiernan C, Beecher S. , et al. Volar plate versus k-wire fixation of distal radius fractures. Injury 2016; 47 (02) 372-376
  • 20 Chung KC, Squitieri L, Kim HM. Comparative outcomes study using the volar locking plating system for distal radius fractures in both young adults and adults older than 60 years. J Hand Surg Am 2008; 33 (06) 809-819
  • 21 Chung KC, Watt AJ, Kotsis SV, Margaliot Z, Haase SC, Kim HM. Treatment of unstable distal radial fractures with the volar locking plating system. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2006; 88 (12) 2687-2694
  • 22 Figl M, Weninger P, Jurkowitsch J, Hofbauer M, Schauer J, Leixnering M. Unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly patient--volar fixed-angle plate osteosynthesis prevents secondary loss of reduction. J Trauma 2010; 68 (04) 992-998
  • 23 Figl M, Weninger P, Liska M, Hofbauer M, Leixnering M. Volar fixed-angle plate osteosynthesis of unstable distal radius fractures: 12 months results. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2009; 129 (05) 661-669
  • 24 Gruber G, Gruber K, Giessauf C. , et al. Volar plate fixation of AO type C2 and C3 distal radius fractures, a single-center study of 55 patients. J Orthop Trauma 2008; 22 (07) 467-472
  • 25 Gereli A, Nalbantoglu U, Kocaoglu B, Turkmen M. Comparative study of the closed reduction percutaneous cannulated screw fixation and open reduction palmar locking plate fixation in the treatment of AO type A2 distal radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2014; 134 (01) 121-129
  • 26 Gereli A, Nalbantoğlu U, Kocaoğlu B, Türkmen M. Comparison of palmar locking plate and K-wire augmented external fixation for intra-articular and comminuted distal radius fractures. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc 2010; 44 (03) 212-219
  • 27 Goehre F, Otto W, Schwan S, Mendel T, Vergroesen PP, Lindemann-Sperfeld L. Comparison of palmar fixed-angle plate fixation with K-wire fixation of distal radius fractures (AO A2, A3, C1) in elderly patients. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2014; 39 (03) 249-257
  • 28 Gogna P, Selhi HS, Singla R. , et al. Osteosynthesis with long volar locking plates for metaphyseal-diaphyseal fractures of the distal radius. Chin J Traumatol 2013; 16 (06) 339-343
  • 29 Gradl G, Mielsch N, Wendt M. , et al. Intramedullary nail versus volar plate fixation of extra-articular distal radius fractures. Two year results of a prospective randomized trial. Injury 2014; 45 (Suppl. 01) S3-S8
  • 30 Gradl G, Gradl G, Wendt M, Mittlmeier T, Kundt G, Jupiter JB. Non-bridging external fixation employing multiplanar K-wires versus volar locked plating for dorsally displaced fractures of the distal radius. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2013; 133 (05) 595-602
  • 31 Grewal R, MacDermid JC, King GJW, Faber KJ. Open reduction internal fixation versus percutaneous pinning with external fixation of distal radius fractures: a prospective, randomized clinical trial. J Hand Surg Am 2011; 36 (12) 1899-1906
  • 32 Gruber G, Zacherl M, Giessauf C. , et al. Quality of life after volar plate fixation of articular fractures of the distal part of the radius. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2010; 92 (05) 1170-1178
  • 33 Hollevoet N, Vanhoutie T, Vanhove W, Verdonk R. Percutaneous K-wire fixation versus palmar plating with locking screws for Colles' fractures. Acta Orthop Belg 2011; 77 (02) 180-187
  • 34 Karantana A, Downing ND, Forward DP. , et al. Surgical treatment of distal radial fractures with a volar locking plate versus conventional percutaneous methods: a randomized controlled trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2013; 95 (19) 1737-1744
  • 35 Kato S, Tatebe M, Yamamoto M, Iwatsuki K, Nishizuka T, Hirata H. The results of volar locking plate fixation for the fragility fracture population with distal radius fracture in Japanese women. Nagoya J Med Sci 2014; 76 (1-2): 101-111
  • 36 Kawasaki K, Nemoto T, Inagaki K, Tomita K, Ueno Y. Variable-angle locking plate with or without double-tiered subchondral support procedure in the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fracture. J Orthop Traumatol 2014; 15 (04) 271-274
  • 37 Khamaisy S, Weil YA, Safran O, Liebergall M, Mosheiff R, Khoury A. Outcome of dorsally comminuted versus intact distal radial fracture fixed with volar locking plates. Injury 2011; 42 (04) 393-396
  • 38 Knight D, Hajducka C, Will E, McQueen M. Locked volar plating for unstable distal radial fractures: clinical and radiological outcomes. Injury 2010; 41 (02) 184-189
  • 39 Konstantinidis L, Helwig P, Strohm PC, Hirschmüller A, Kron P, Südkamp NP. Clinical and radiological outcomes after stabilisation of complex intra-articular fractures of the distal radius with the volar 2.4 mm LCP. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2010; 130 (06) 751-757
  • 40 Kumbaraci M, Kucuk L, Karapinar L, Kurt C, Coskunol E. Retrospective comparison of external fixation versus volar locking plate in the treatment of unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol 2014; 24 (02) 173-178
  • 41 Kwan K, Lau TW, Leung F. Operative treatment of distal radial fractures with locking plate system-a prospective study. Int Orthop 2011; 35 (03) 389-394
  • 42 Lattmann T, Dietrich M, Meier C, Kilgus M, Platz A. Comparison of 2 surgical approaches for volar locking plate osteosynthesis of the distal radius. J Hand Surg Am 2008; 33 (07) 1135-1143
  • 43 Lattmann T, Meier C, Dietrich M, Forberger J, Platz A. Results of volar locking plate osteosynthesis for distal radial fractures. J Trauma 2011; 70 (06) 1510-1518
  • 44 Lee YS, Wei TY, Cheng YC, Hsu TL, Huang CR. A comparative study of Colles' fractures in patients between fifty and seventy years of age: percutaneous K-wiring versus volar locking plating. Int Orthop 2012; 36 (04) 789-794
  • 45 Marlow WJ, Singhal R, Dheerendra S, Ralte P, Fischer J, Waseem M. Distal radius volar locking plates: does a variable angle locking system confer a clinical advantage?. Acta Orthop Belg 2012; 78 (03) 309-316
  • 46 Matschke S, Marent-Huber M, Audigé L, Wentzensen A. ; LCP Study Group. The surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures by angle stable implants: a multicenter prospective study. J Orthop Trauma 2011; 25 (05) 312-317
  • 47 Matschke S, Wentzensen A, Ring D, Marent-Huber M, Audigé L, Jupiter JB. Comparison of angle stable plate fixation approaches for distal radius fractures. Injury 2011; 42 (04) 385-392
  • 48 Mellstrand Navarro C, Ahrengart L, Törnqvist H, Ponzer S. Volar locking plate or external fixation with optional addition of K-wires for dorsally displaced distal radius fractures: a randomized controlled study. J Orthop Trauma 2016; 30 (04) 217-224
  • 49 Minegishi H, Dohi O, An S, Sato H. Treatment of unstable distal radius fractures with the volar locking plate. Ups J Med Sci 2011; 116 (04) 280-284
  • 50 Osada D, Kamei S, Masuzaki K, Takai M, Kameda M, Tamai K. Prospective study of distal radius fractures treated with a volar locking plate system. J Hand Surg Am 2008; 33 (05) 691-700
  • 51 Phadnis J, Trompeter A, Gallagher K, Bradshaw L, Elliott DS, Newman KJ. Mid-term functional outcome after the internal fixation of distal radius fractures. J Orthop Surg 2012; 7: 4
  • 52 Plate JF, Gaffney DL, Emory CL. , et al. Randomized comparison of volar locking plates and intramedullary nails for unstable distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 2015; 40 (06) 1095-1101
  • 53 Rampoldi M, Palombi D, Tagliente D. Distal radius fractures with diaphyseal involvement: fixation with fixed angle volar plate. J Orthop Traumatol 2011; 12 (03) 137-143
  • 54 Rozental TD, Blazar PE, Franko OI, Chacko AT, Earp BE, Day CS. Functional outcomes for unstable distal radial fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation or closed reduction and percutaneous fixation. A prospective randomized trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2009; 91 (08) 1837-1846
  • 55 Sonderegger J, Schindele S, Rau M, Gruenert JG. Palmar multidirectional fixed-angle plate fixation in distal radius fractures: do intraarticular fractures have a worse outcome than extraarticular fractures?. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2010; 130 (10) 1263-1268
  • 56 Souer JS, Ring D, Matschke S, Audige L, Maren-Hubert M, Jupiter J. Comparison of functional outcome after volar plate fixation with 2.4-mm titanium versus 3.5-mm stainless-steel plate for extra-articular fracture of distal radius. J Hand Surg Am 2010; 35 (03) 398-405
  • 57 Sügün TS, Gürbüz Y, Özaksar K, Toros T, Kayalar M, Bal E. Results of volar locking plating for unstable distal radius fractures. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc 2012; 46 (01) 22-25
  • 58 Takada N, Otsuka T, Yamada K. , et al. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for distal radius fractures with a palmar locking plate. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 2012; 38 (06) 627-632
  • 59 Tarallo L, Mugnai R, Zambianchi F, Adani R, Catani F. Volar plate fixation for the treatment of distal radius fractures: analysis of adverse events. J Orthop Trauma 2013; 27 (12) 740-745
  • 60 Vlček M, Jaganjac E, Pech J, Jonáš D, Kebrle R. Is minimally invasive application by intramedullary osteosynthesis in comparison with volar plating real benefit in the treatment of distal radius fractures?. Bosn J Basic Med Sci 2014; 14 (02) 81-88
  • 61 Wei DH, Raizman NM, Bottino CJ, Jobin CM, Strauch RJ, Rosenwasser MP. Unstable distal radial fractures treated with external fixation, a radial column plate, or a volar plate. A prospective randomized trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2009; 91 (07) 1568-1577
  • 62 Wei XM, Sun ZZ, Rui YJ, Song XJ. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for distal radius fractures. Indian J Orthop 2014; 48 (01) 20-24
  • 63 Wichlas F, Haas NP, Disch A, Machó D, Tsitsilonis S. Complication rates and reduction potential of palmar versus dorsal locking plate osteosynthesis for the treatment of distal radius fractures. J Orthop Traumatol 2014; 15 (04) 259-264
  • 64 Wilcke MKT, Abbaszadegan H, Adolphson PY. Wrist function recovers more rapidly after volar locked plating than after external fixation but the outcomes are similar after 1 year. Acta Orthop 2011; 82 (01) 76-81
  • 65 Williksen JH, Frihagen F, Hellund JC, Kvernmo HD, Husby T. Volar locking plates versus external fixation and adjuvant pin fixation in unstable distal radius fractures: a randomized, controlled study. J Hand Surg Am 2013; 38 (08) 1469-1476
  • 66 Yu YR, Makhni MC, Tabrizi S, Rozental TD, Mundanthanam G, Day CS. Complications of low-profile dorsal versus volar locking plates in the distal radius: a comparative study. J Hand Surg Am 2011; 36 (07) 1135-1141
  • 67 Zenke Y, Sakai A, Oshige T. , et al. Clinical results of volar locking plate for distal radius fractures: conventional versus minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis. J Orthop Trauma 2011; 25 (07) 425-431
  • 68 Protopsaltis TS, Ruch DS. Volar approach to distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 2008; 33 (06) 958-965
  • 69 Azzi AJ, Aldekhayel S, Boehm KS, Zadeh T. Tendon rupture and tenosynovitis following internal fixation of distal radius fractures: a systematic review. Plast Reconstr Surg 2017; 139 (03) 717e-724e

Address for correspondence

Todd H. Alter, BS
Rothman Institute at the Thomas Jefferson University
925 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

  • References

  • 1 Court-Brown CM, Caesar B. Epidemiology of adult fractures: a review. Injury 2006; 37 (08) 691-697
  • 2 Karl JW, Olson PR, Rosenwasser MP. The epidemiology of upper extremity fractures in the United States, 2009. J Orthop Trauma 2015; 29 (08) e242-e244
  • 3 Kilgore ML, Morrisey MA, Becker DJ. , et al. Health care expenditures associated with skeletal fractures among Medicare beneficiaries, 1999-2005. J Bone Miner Res 2009; 24 (12) 2050-2055
  • 4 Arora R, Gabl M, Gschwentner M, Deml C, Krappinger D, Lutz M. A comparative study of clinical and radiologic outcomes of unstable Colles type distal radius fractures in patients older than 70 years: nonoperative treatment versus volar locking plating. J Orthop Trauma 2009; 23 (04) 237-242
  • 5 Bales JG, Stern PJ. Treatment strategies of distal radius fractures. Hand Clin 2012; 28 (02) 177-184
  • 6 Roh YH, Lee BK, Baek JR, Noh JH, Gong HS, Baek GH. A randomized comparison of volar plate and external fixation for intra-articular distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 2015; 40 (01) 34-41
  • 7 Schneppendahl J, Windolf J, Kaufmann RA. Distal radius fractures: current concepts. J Hand Surg Am 2012; 37 (08) 1718-1725
  • 8 Chung KC, Shauver MJ, Birkmeyer JD. Trends in the United States in the treatment of distal radial fractures in the elderly. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2009; 91 (08) 1868-1873
  • 9 Hakimi M, Jungbluth P, Windolf J, Wild M. Functional results and complications following locking palmar plating on the distal radius: a retrospective study. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2010; 35 (04) 283-288
  • 10 Arora R, Lutz M, Deml C, Krappinger D, Haug L, Gabl M. A prospective randomized trial comparing nonoperative treatment with volar locking plate fixation for displaced and unstable distal radial fractures in patients sixty-five years of age and older. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2011; 93 (23) 2146-2153
  • 11 Cui Z, Pan J, Yu B, Zhang K, Xiong X. Internal versus external fixation for unstable distal radius fractures: an up-to-date meta-analysis. Int Orthop 2011; 35 (09) 1333-1341
  • 12 Koval KJ, Harrast JJ, Anglen JO, Weinstein JN. Fractures of the distal part of the radius. The evolution of practice over time. Where's the evidence?. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2008; 90 (09) 1855-1861
  • 13 Rampoldi M, Marsico S. Complications of volar plating of distal radius fractures. Acta Orthop Belg 2007; 73 (06) 714-719
  • 14 Zenke Y, Sakai A, Oshige T. , et al. Extensor pollicis longus tendon ruptures after the use of volar locking plates for distal radius fractures. Hand Surg 2013; 18 (02) 169-173
  • 15 Asadollahi S, Keith PP. Flexor tendon injuries following plate fixation of distal radius fractures: a systematic review of the literature. J Orthop Traumatol 2013; 14 (04) 227-234
  • 16 Zhao HL, Wang GB, Jia YQ, Zhu SC, Zhang FF, Liu HM. Comparison of risk of Carpal Tunnel syndrome in patients with distal radius fractures after 7 treatments. Med Sci Monit 2015; 21: 2837-2844
  • 17 Fowler JR, Ilyas AM. Prospective evaluation of distal radius fractures treated with variable-angle volar locking plates. J Hand Surg Am 2013; 38 (11) 2198-2203
  • 18 Arora R, Lutz M, Hennerbichler A, Krappinger D, Espen D, Gabl M. Complications following internal fixation of unstable distal radius fracture with a palmar locking-plate. J Orthop Trauma 2007; 21 (05) 316-322
  • 19 Brennan SA, Kiernan C, Beecher S. , et al. Volar plate versus k-wire fixation of distal radius fractures. Injury 2016; 47 (02) 372-376
  • 20 Chung KC, Squitieri L, Kim HM. Comparative outcomes study using the volar locking plating system for distal radius fractures in both young adults and adults older than 60 years. J Hand Surg Am 2008; 33 (06) 809-819
  • 21 Chung KC, Watt AJ, Kotsis SV, Margaliot Z, Haase SC, Kim HM. Treatment of unstable distal radial fractures with the volar locking plating system. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2006; 88 (12) 2687-2694
  • 22 Figl M, Weninger P, Jurkowitsch J, Hofbauer M, Schauer J, Leixnering M. Unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly patient--volar fixed-angle plate osteosynthesis prevents secondary loss of reduction. J Trauma 2010; 68 (04) 992-998
  • 23 Figl M, Weninger P, Liska M, Hofbauer M, Leixnering M. Volar fixed-angle plate osteosynthesis of unstable distal radius fractures: 12 months results. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2009; 129 (05) 661-669
  • 24 Gruber G, Gruber K, Giessauf C. , et al. Volar plate fixation of AO type C2 and C3 distal radius fractures, a single-center study of 55 patients. J Orthop Trauma 2008; 22 (07) 467-472
  • 25 Gereli A, Nalbantoglu U, Kocaoglu B, Turkmen M. Comparative study of the closed reduction percutaneous cannulated screw fixation and open reduction palmar locking plate fixation in the treatment of AO type A2 distal radius fractures. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2014; 134 (01) 121-129
  • 26 Gereli A, Nalbantoğlu U, Kocaoğlu B, Türkmen M. Comparison of palmar locking plate and K-wire augmented external fixation for intra-articular and comminuted distal radius fractures. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc 2010; 44 (03) 212-219
  • 27 Goehre F, Otto W, Schwan S, Mendel T, Vergroesen PP, Lindemann-Sperfeld L. Comparison of palmar fixed-angle plate fixation with K-wire fixation of distal radius fractures (AO A2, A3, C1) in elderly patients. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2014; 39 (03) 249-257
  • 28 Gogna P, Selhi HS, Singla R. , et al. Osteosynthesis with long volar locking plates for metaphyseal-diaphyseal fractures of the distal radius. Chin J Traumatol 2013; 16 (06) 339-343
  • 29 Gradl G, Mielsch N, Wendt M. , et al. Intramedullary nail versus volar plate fixation of extra-articular distal radius fractures. Two year results of a prospective randomized trial. Injury 2014; 45 (Suppl. 01) S3-S8
  • 30 Gradl G, Gradl G, Wendt M, Mittlmeier T, Kundt G, Jupiter JB. Non-bridging external fixation employing multiplanar K-wires versus volar locked plating for dorsally displaced fractures of the distal radius. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2013; 133 (05) 595-602
  • 31 Grewal R, MacDermid JC, King GJW, Faber KJ. Open reduction internal fixation versus percutaneous pinning with external fixation of distal radius fractures: a prospective, randomized clinical trial. J Hand Surg Am 2011; 36 (12) 1899-1906
  • 32 Gruber G, Zacherl M, Giessauf C. , et al. Quality of life after volar plate fixation of articular fractures of the distal part of the radius. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2010; 92 (05) 1170-1178
  • 33 Hollevoet N, Vanhoutie T, Vanhove W, Verdonk R. Percutaneous K-wire fixation versus palmar plating with locking screws for Colles' fractures. Acta Orthop Belg 2011; 77 (02) 180-187
  • 34 Karantana A, Downing ND, Forward DP. , et al. Surgical treatment of distal radial fractures with a volar locking plate versus conventional percutaneous methods: a randomized controlled trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2013; 95 (19) 1737-1744
  • 35 Kato S, Tatebe M, Yamamoto M, Iwatsuki K, Nishizuka T, Hirata H. The results of volar locking plate fixation for the fragility fracture population with distal radius fracture in Japanese women. Nagoya J Med Sci 2014; 76 (1-2): 101-111
  • 36 Kawasaki K, Nemoto T, Inagaki K, Tomita K, Ueno Y. Variable-angle locking plate with or without double-tiered subchondral support procedure in the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fracture. J Orthop Traumatol 2014; 15 (04) 271-274
  • 37 Khamaisy S, Weil YA, Safran O, Liebergall M, Mosheiff R, Khoury A. Outcome of dorsally comminuted versus intact distal radial fracture fixed with volar locking plates. Injury 2011; 42 (04) 393-396
  • 38 Knight D, Hajducka C, Will E, McQueen M. Locked volar plating for unstable distal radial fractures: clinical and radiological outcomes. Injury 2010; 41 (02) 184-189
  • 39 Konstantinidis L, Helwig P, Strohm PC, Hirschmüller A, Kron P, Südkamp NP. Clinical and radiological outcomes after stabilisation of complex intra-articular fractures of the distal radius with the volar 2.4 mm LCP. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2010; 130 (06) 751-757
  • 40 Kumbaraci M, Kucuk L, Karapinar L, Kurt C, Coskunol E. Retrospective comparison of external fixation versus volar locking plate in the treatment of unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol 2014; 24 (02) 173-178
  • 41 Kwan K, Lau TW, Leung F. Operative treatment of distal radial fractures with locking plate system-a prospective study. Int Orthop 2011; 35 (03) 389-394
  • 42 Lattmann T, Dietrich M, Meier C, Kilgus M, Platz A. Comparison of 2 surgical approaches for volar locking plate osteosynthesis of the distal radius. J Hand Surg Am 2008; 33 (07) 1135-1143
  • 43 Lattmann T, Meier C, Dietrich M, Forberger J, Platz A. Results of volar locking plate osteosynthesis for distal radial fractures. J Trauma 2011; 70 (06) 1510-1518
  • 44 Lee YS, Wei TY, Cheng YC, Hsu TL, Huang CR. A comparative study of Colles' fractures in patients between fifty and seventy years of age: percutaneous K-wiring versus volar locking plating. Int Orthop 2012; 36 (04) 789-794
  • 45 Marlow WJ, Singhal R, Dheerendra S, Ralte P, Fischer J, Waseem M. Distal radius volar locking plates: does a variable angle locking system confer a clinical advantage?. Acta Orthop Belg 2012; 78 (03) 309-316
  • 46 Matschke S, Marent-Huber M, Audigé L, Wentzensen A. ; LCP Study Group. The surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures by angle stable implants: a multicenter prospective study. J Orthop Trauma 2011; 25 (05) 312-317
  • 47 Matschke S, Wentzensen A, Ring D, Marent-Huber M, Audigé L, Jupiter JB. Comparison of angle stable plate fixation approaches for distal radius fractures. Injury 2011; 42 (04) 385-392
  • 48 Mellstrand Navarro C, Ahrengart L, Törnqvist H, Ponzer S. Volar locking plate or external fixation with optional addition of K-wires for dorsally displaced distal radius fractures: a randomized controlled study. J Orthop Trauma 2016; 30 (04) 217-224
  • 49 Minegishi H, Dohi O, An S, Sato H. Treatment of unstable distal radius fractures with the volar locking plate. Ups J Med Sci 2011; 116 (04) 280-284
  • 50 Osada D, Kamei S, Masuzaki K, Takai M, Kameda M, Tamai K. Prospective study of distal radius fractures treated with a volar locking plate system. J Hand Surg Am 2008; 33 (05) 691-700
  • 51 Phadnis J, Trompeter A, Gallagher K, Bradshaw L, Elliott DS, Newman KJ. Mid-term functional outcome after the internal fixation of distal radius fractures. J Orthop Surg 2012; 7: 4
  • 52 Plate JF, Gaffney DL, Emory CL. , et al. Randomized comparison of volar locking plates and intramedullary nails for unstable distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 2015; 40 (06) 1095-1101
  • 53 Rampoldi M, Palombi D, Tagliente D. Distal radius fractures with diaphyseal involvement: fixation with fixed angle volar plate. J Orthop Traumatol 2011; 12 (03) 137-143
  • 54 Rozental TD, Blazar PE, Franko OI, Chacko AT, Earp BE, Day CS. Functional outcomes for unstable distal radial fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation or closed reduction and percutaneous fixation. A prospective randomized trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2009; 91 (08) 1837-1846
  • 55 Sonderegger J, Schindele S, Rau M, Gruenert JG. Palmar multidirectional fixed-angle plate fixation in distal radius fractures: do intraarticular fractures have a worse outcome than extraarticular fractures?. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2010; 130 (10) 1263-1268
  • 56 Souer JS, Ring D, Matschke S, Audige L, Maren-Hubert M, Jupiter J. Comparison of functional outcome after volar plate fixation with 2.4-mm titanium versus 3.5-mm stainless-steel plate for extra-articular fracture of distal radius. J Hand Surg Am 2010; 35 (03) 398-405
  • 57 Sügün TS, Gürbüz Y, Özaksar K, Toros T, Kayalar M, Bal E. Results of volar locking plating for unstable distal radius fractures. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc 2012; 46 (01) 22-25
  • 58 Takada N, Otsuka T, Yamada K. , et al. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for distal radius fractures with a palmar locking plate. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 2012; 38 (06) 627-632
  • 59 Tarallo L, Mugnai R, Zambianchi F, Adani R, Catani F. Volar plate fixation for the treatment of distal radius fractures: analysis of adverse events. J Orthop Trauma 2013; 27 (12) 740-745
  • 60 Vlček M, Jaganjac E, Pech J, Jonáš D, Kebrle R. Is minimally invasive application by intramedullary osteosynthesis in comparison with volar plating real benefit in the treatment of distal radius fractures?. Bosn J Basic Med Sci 2014; 14 (02) 81-88
  • 61 Wei DH, Raizman NM, Bottino CJ, Jobin CM, Strauch RJ, Rosenwasser MP. Unstable distal radial fractures treated with external fixation, a radial column plate, or a volar plate. A prospective randomized trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2009; 91 (07) 1568-1577
  • 62 Wei XM, Sun ZZ, Rui YJ, Song XJ. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for distal radius fractures. Indian J Orthop 2014; 48 (01) 20-24
  • 63 Wichlas F, Haas NP, Disch A, Machó D, Tsitsilonis S. Complication rates and reduction potential of palmar versus dorsal locking plate osteosynthesis for the treatment of distal radius fractures. J Orthop Traumatol 2014; 15 (04) 259-264
  • 64 Wilcke MKT, Abbaszadegan H, Adolphson PY. Wrist function recovers more rapidly after volar locked plating than after external fixation but the outcomes are similar after 1 year. Acta Orthop 2011; 82 (01) 76-81
  • 65 Williksen JH, Frihagen F, Hellund JC, Kvernmo HD, Husby T. Volar locking plates versus external fixation and adjuvant pin fixation in unstable distal radius fractures: a randomized, controlled study. J Hand Surg Am 2013; 38 (08) 1469-1476
  • 66 Yu YR, Makhni MC, Tabrizi S, Rozental TD, Mundanthanam G, Day CS. Complications of low-profile dorsal versus volar locking plates in the distal radius: a comparative study. J Hand Surg Am 2011; 36 (07) 1135-1141
  • 67 Zenke Y, Sakai A, Oshige T. , et al. Clinical results of volar locking plate for distal radius fractures: conventional versus minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis. J Orthop Trauma 2011; 25 (07) 425-431
  • 68 Protopsaltis TS, Ruch DS. Volar approach to distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 2008; 33 (06) 958-965
  • 69 Azzi AJ, Aldekhayel S, Boehm KS, Zadeh T. Tendon rupture and tenosynovitis following internal fixation of distal radius fractures: a systematic review. Plast Reconstr Surg 2017; 139 (03) 717e-724e

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Fig. 1 Flow diagram indicating results of the literature search and study selection procedure.