A Comparative Study of Type C3 Distal Radius Fracture Treated by Volar Plate in Combination with External Fixator in Elderly Patients

Abstract：Objective To compare the clinical outcomes of volar plate in combination with external fixator(VPEF)and closed reduction plus plaster immobilization(CRPI)for the management of type C3 distal radius fractures in elderly patients. Methods In our study,the clinical data of 62 elderly patients with type C3 distal radius fracture in our hospital from July 2006 to December 2012 were evaluated. 31 patients were treated by volar plate in combination with external fixator,wheres the other 31 patients treated by closed reduction plus plaster immobilization. The functional outcomes and radiological results were compared between the two groups. The range of motion and grip strength were measured. Radiographic parameters(Palmar tilt, palmar inclination and radial length)were measured. Wrist scores according to Krimmer score and the DASH questionnaire were used. Results 62 cases were all followed up,mean follow-up period was 14. 8 months(12 ~ 18 months). The radiograph-ic parameters and functional parameters showed significant differences between the groups( P ﹤ 0. 01). The VPEF group showed the most positive results. According to Krimmer and DASH score,there were significantly better results in the VPEF group in comparison to the CRPI group(P ﹤ 0. 01). There was no statistically significant difference in visual analogue scale (VAS)pain score between the two groups. Conclusion Volar plate in combination with external fixator is an effective treat-ment for type C3 distal radius fractures in elderly patients.