The effects of a displaced dorsal rim fracture on outcomes after volar plate fixation of a distal radius fracture

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to determine whether a displaced dorsal rim fracture has an adverse effect on wrist function after volar plate fixation of a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture (DRF).Materials and methodsTwo matched cohorts of 23 matched patients, one with a displaced dorsal rim fracture >2 mm (group 1), and the other without a dorsal rim fracture (group 2) were analysed in this study of volar locking plate fixation for dorsally unstable DRFs. The two cohorts were analysed for differences in wrist function and wrist pain, radiographic parameters and arthritic grades of radiocarpal joints. Displacement of dorsal rim fragments and diameters of the retained articular portions of dorsal rims in group 1 were measured.ResultsNo significant difference was found between the two groups in overall wrist function or wrist pain. Mean displacement of dorsal rims in group 1 was 3.0 mm and the mean diameter of the retained articular portion of dorsal articular wall was 2.0 mm. No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of any radiographic parameters or the arthritic grading of radiocarpal joints.ConclusionA displaced dorsal rim fracture does not appear to affect outcomes adversely after volar locking plate fixation of dorsally displaced DRFs.