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Scaphoid fractures are frequent but are overlooked in 20-40% of cases on initial radiographs. In so-called occult scaphoid fractures, i.e. clinical scaphoid fractures with negative X‑ray diagnostics, the hand of the patient is often empirically immobilized with a cast and the X‑ray diagnostics repeated 10 days later. Based on the current literature the authors propose a diagnostic algorithm that incorporates various patient characteristics and socioeconomic aspects and suggests a possible follow-up treatment. For high-demand and manually working patients, timely advanced diagnostic imaging may be medically and socioeconomically meaningful. Pensioners and patients with low manual demands, however, can be treated according to the traditional algorithm. Additional use of computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnostics with or without intra-articular contrast agent might be helpful if concomitant soft tissue injuries are suspected.

Transposition of the proximal radioulnar joint, so-called convergent elbow dislocation, is an extremely rare injury whereby the proximal radius crosses over the proximal ulnar and converges medially. This injury can occur in isolation or even less frequently in association with a posterior humeroulnar dislocation. Open reduction is almost always necessary. The diagnosis is frequently delayed as the injury is easily overlooked. In the literature, 13 cases in children and 2 in adults have so far been described. This is the first report of a combined elbow dislocation (posterior and convergent) with an initially diagnosed and definitively treated comminuted radial head fracture in adults.

Fractures of the scaphoid bone are common but can easily be overlooked in standard X‑rays. Inadequate diagnostics and therefore inappropriate treatment of scaphoid fractures often leads to problems in healing with formation of non-union and painful osteoarthritis of the wrist.This review summarizes the current practical recommendations in the diagnostics and treatment of acute scaphoid fractures.An analysis and review of selected literature including the current S3 guidelines were performed.The main statements are that in cases of a clinically suspected scaphoid fracture, staged diagnostics including radiographs, computed tomography (CT) and when necessary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should be applied to confirm or exclude a fracture. Further treatment in the case of a fracture is planned according to a CT-based classification. There are fracture types that can be treated either conservatively or operatively and there are other fracture types that always require operative fixation. The operative technique depends on the exact fracture geometry. For osteosynthesis, cannulated headless compression screws are mostly used.

Special and specialized instruments help perform reduction more effectively and in a tissue-preserving manner. In addition to other articles, the application and advantages of the following instruments are presented: colinear reduction forceps, cerclage, cerclage passer, distal radius reduction clamp, modular external fixator, extension table, distraction frame, joystick, manipulators, distractor and assistance of reduction with elastic nails.

Radial head fractures are the most frequent fractures of the elbow joint in adults. For Mason type II fractures without concomitant injuries favorable results have been shown with operative and conservative management. There is insufficient evidence concerning elbow joint stability after conservative treatment compared to open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF).All patients with isolated Mason type II (two part fracture displaced2 mm and5 mm) radial head fractures between 1 January 2003 and 1 April 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Exclusion criteria were age18 years, associated fractures of the ipsilateral extremity or elbow luxation. A total of 50 patients (mean age 44.2 years, range 19-71 years) who received either ORIF (n = 31) or conservative treatment (n = 19) were included. The mean follow-up was 43.2 months (range 9-61 months). Patients were evaluated using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS), and Oxford Elbow score (OES). Joint stability (varus and valgus stress) was assessed under fluoroscopy and a distinction was made between slight instability (angulation10°), moderate instability (angulation ≥10°) and gross instability (elbow dislocation).Residual fracture displacement (conservative: 2.7 mm, ORIF: 1.4 mm, p 0.042) and varus/valgus joint stability (3% ORIF vs. 26% conservative, p = 0.031) showed significant differences. The stability as tested by a radiological dynamic procedure showed an instability after ORIF in 3% of the joints compared to 26% after conservative treatment; however, this did not influence the short to mid-term clinical outcome: No significant differences were found in the DASH score (conservative 33 points, ORIF 36 points), MEPS (conservative 76 points, ORIF 78 points) and OES (conservative 41 points, ORIF 43 points).Both conservative management and operative treatment had a good functional outcome. Operative treatment showed a positive tendency concerning radiological and functional outcome without statistical significance.

Kirschner wire osteosynthesis is considered to be the standard technique for surgical fixation of displaced supracondylar humeral and distal radial fractures in children. The Kirschner wires can be left exposed or buried under the skin. Advantages of the epicutaneous technique are, e. g. the efficiency (cost, effort) and the possibility for wire removal without the necessity of a second anesthesia. On the other hand, there is a concern about higher infection rates as well as traumatization of the children due to externally visible wires.A web-based survey of members of the DGU, DGOU, DGOOC, and the pediatric traumatology section of the DGU (SKT) was performed to evaluate current treatment concepts in Germany. The pros and cons for each technique were recorded and the need for a clinical study was examined. In addition, a cost analysis was performed for both methods. The results from the literature are summarized and discussed.A total of 710 questionnaires were evaluated. The majority of the respondents were trauma surgeons working in a hospital (80%). The buried technique was superior in both fracture groups (supracondylar humeral fractures 73% and distal radius fractures 69%), whereas a relevant difference could be found depending on the profession. The main reason for the subcutaneous technique was anxiety or observed higher infections using the epicutaneous technique.In Germany, the majority of wires are buried under the skin due to a fear of higher infection rates. In addition, other influencing factors such as pain and traditional approaches play a significant role. With respect to the results in the literature as well as a possible improvement of efficiency and avoidance of a second anesthesia, a multicentric clinical study seems necessary in the future to compare both techniques.

The results and immediate consequences of intraoperative three-dimensional (3D) imaging in the treatment of AO classification type C fractures of the distal radius, the tibial head and the tibial pilon were analyzed and compared with published results on general intraoperative revision rates following intraoperative 3D-imaging.In this retrospective study 279 patients with AO type C fractures of the distal radius (n = 84), tibial head (n = 109) and tibial pilon (n = 86) who underwent intraoperative 3D-imaging were included. The findings of the 3D-imaging and the intraoperative revision rates were analyzed and compared with previously published results of our working group.In 70 out of 279 patients (25 %) an intraoperative revision was carried out following 3D-imaging. The revision rates were 15 % for fractures of the distal radius, 27 % for fractures of the tibial head and 32 % for fractures of the tibial pilon. The most common reason for immediate intraoperative revision was the necessity for improved repositioning due to a remaining step in the articular surface in 51 out of 279 patients (18%).Intraoperative revision rates following 3D-imaging increased with the severity of the injury pattern. Intraoperative 3D-imaging should be routinely used in the treatment of fractures of the tibial head, tibial pilon and even in comminuted distal radius fractures due to the high intraoperative revision rates found in the present study. Alternatively, a postoperative computed tomography (CT) control should be performed.

The complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) still represents an incompletely etiologically understood complication following fractures of the distal radius. The incidence of CRPS following fractures of the distal radius varies between 1 % and 37 %. Pathophysiologically, a complex interaction of inflammatory, somatosensory, motor and autonomic changes is suspected, leading to a persistent maladaptive response and sensitization of the central and peripheral nervous systems with development of the corresponding symptoms. Decisive for the diagnostics are a detailed patient medical history and a clinical hand surgical, neurological and pain-related examination with confirmation of the Budapest criteria. Among the types of apparatus used for diagnostics, 3‑phase bone scintigraphy and temperature measurement have a certain importance. A multimodal therapy started as early as possible is the most promising approach for successful treatment. As part of a multimodal rehabilitation the main focus of therapy lies on pain relief and functional aspects.

Fractures of the distal radius are most commonly caused by hyperextension injuries of the wrist. Tensile forces and force vectors, strength of impact, bone strength and soft tissue tension create individually different fracture patterns. Metaphyseal comminution, loss of cortical support, ligament avulsion and shear fragments are defining parameters for fracture instability. The dislocation of the articular fragment follows the force vectors of the extrinsic forearm muscles bridging the joint. The goal-plan-standardized (GPS) treatment strategy has proven to be helpful in choosing the ideal individual treatment. It is based on individual patient demands on wrist function and an analysis of fracture instability in computed tomography (CT) scans. The "goal" is a realistic expectation assessed by patient and surgeon. The "plan" includes a benefit-risk analysis and selection of an appropriate treatment modality. The "standardized treatment" of surgical and follow-up treatment is based on biomechanical knowledge. Locking plate osteosynthesis aims to neutralize dislocating force vectors and to allow early active mobility. Unidirectional instability can be indirectly neutralized by palmar locking plate systems. A multidirectional instability can be addressed by multiple plating following the column theory. Distal shear and avulsion fractures may require a fragment-specific osteosynthesis approach.

The operative treatment of unstable distal radius fractures primarily aims for the anatomical reduction of the joint while addressing accompanying injuries. Anatomical reduction, stable fixation and early functional movement of the joint are the three cornerstones of modern treatment concepts of distal radius fractures. Distal radius volar locking plates play a major role in the treatment and rehabilitation of the most commonly occurring fracture in humans. This article outlines the different principles in the current design of available distal radius volar locking plates. The biomechanical aspects, anatomical findings and clinical evaluation that have influenced current design features and trends in new developments of the latest plates are emphasized. This is an ongoing process that is supported through the investigation and feedback of clinical science.

Diese Studie untersucht den Verlauf und die klinische Relevanz biochemischer Resorptionsmarker wahrend der Frakturheilung bei Osteoporose. Bei 44 Patientinnen mit distaler Radiusfraktur und 29 Patientinnen ohne Fraktur wurden die Blut- und Urinkonzentrationen von Pyridinolin (PYD), Desoxypyridinolin (DPD), N-Telopeptiden (NTx) und Bone-Sialoprotein (BSP) am Unfalltag und im Verlauf erfasst. Alle postmenopausalen Patientinnen wurden einer Knochendichtemessung unterzogen. Das Gesamtkollektiv wurde entsprechend in pramenopausal, postmenopausal osteoporotisch und postmenopausal nichtosteoporotisch eingeteilt. Zwischen den Gruppen zeigten sich signifikante Unterschiede in den Ausgangswerten von PYD, DPD und NTx. Den weiteren relativen Verlauf beeinflusste vor allem die Art der jeweils eingeleiteten Therapie. Knochenresorptionsmarker konnen diagnostisch Hinweise auf eine Osteoporose geben und eignen sich sehr gut als Verlaufsparameter bei der Frakturheilung.

The clinical implementation of a new carbon-fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketon (PEEK) plate for distal radius fractures might offer advantageous properties over the conventional metallic devices. This includes similar elastic modulus to cortical bone, radiolucency, low artifacts on MRI scans and the lack of metal allergies.The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical results at 6-week and 12-month follow-up using either a new fixed angle (monoaxial) PEEK plate system or a fixed angle (polyaxial) titanium plate.We included 26 patients (mean age 59.3) with displaced fractures of the distal radius (all AO types). Radiological and functional outcomes were measured prospectively at a 6-week and 12 month follow-up.We documented no cases of hardware breakage or significant loss of the surgically achieved fracture reduction with the usage oft the new PEEK device. Operating time was 101.0 min using PEEK versus 109.3 min in titanium plates, recorded times were including preparation, draping, and postoperative processing (ns, p 0.156). At the 6-week follow up the PEEK plate showed a trend for better range of motion and functional results (DASH-score, Mayo-wrist score, VAS) with no statistical significance. Results of 12 month follow up with PEEK showed comparable results with corresponding studies examining titanium plate after this period.First experience with PEEK plate osteosynthesis demonstrate quick clinical implementation with good clinical outcome and the advantage of excellent postoperative radiological assessment. At early follow-up PEEK even showed a trend for improved functional results.

Elbow dislocation with ipsilateral proximal radial shaft fracture and dislocated radial head is a rarely described injury. In this article we present the case of a 23-year-old man with this injury. After the initial diagnostics, the radial shaft fracture was osteosynthetically fixed, whereby the anatomical positions of all parts of the elbow joint were correctly aligned and the medial collateral ligament was reconstructed. After 4.5 months the radial shaft fracture was healed with nearly complete functional recovery of the upper extremity. Thus, a good outcome can be expected when all aspects of bony and ligamentous injuries are accurately addressed.

Digital planning of implants is in most cases conducted prior to surgery. The virtual implant planning system (VIPS) is an application developed for mobile C-arms, which assists the virtual planning of screws close to the joint line during surgery for treatment of distal radius fractures with volar plate osteosynthesis. The aim of this prospective randomized study was to acquire initial clinical experiences and to compare the VIPS method with the conventional technique.The study included 10 patients for primary testing and 30 patients with distal radius fractures of types A3, C1 and C2, divided in 2 groups. In the VIPS group, after placement of the plate and fracture reduction, a virtual 3D model of the plate was matched with the image of the plate from the fluoroscopic acquisition. Next, the length and position of the screws close to the joint line were planned on the virtual plate. The control group was treated with the same implant in the conventional way. Data were collected regarding screw replacement, fluoroscopy and operating room (OR) times.The VIPS group included six A3, one C1 and eight C2 fractures, while the control group consisted of six A3 and nine C2 fractures. Three screws were replaced in the VIPS group and two in the control group (p = 0.24). The mean intraoperative fluoroscopy time of the VIPS group amounted to 2.58 ± 1.38 min, whereas it was 2.12 ± 0.73 min in the control group (p = 0.26). The mean OR time in the VIPS group was 53.3 ± 34.5 minutes and 42.3 ± 8.8 min (p = 0.23) in the control group.The VIPS enables a precise positioning of screws close to joint line in the treatment of distal radius fractures; however, for routine use, further development of the system is necessary.

Therapy of radial head fractures is still controversially discussed. Especially comminuted fractures are at risk of complications such as radial head necrosis, nonunion and secondary loss of reduction after open reduction and internal fixation. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiographic results of ORIF (open reduction internal fixation) of radial head fractures using a new radial head-specific locking plate system.A total of 21 patients (13 men and 8 women) were treated with locking plate osteosynthesis of radial head fractures. Mean age was 50 years (range 29-67 years). According to the Mason classification, 15 were type III and 6 type IV. Mean time between trauma and surgery was 5.6 days (range 0-23 days). These patients were reexamined using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score and x-rays in two planes.In all, 21 patients were reexamined with a mean follow-up of 12.1 months (range 5-23 months). The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 87.1. Excellent results were obtained in 12 patients, good results in 6 patients, and fair results in 3 patients. Mean extension deficit was 12.1°, mean flexion 135.2°, mean pronation 70.9°, and mean supination 63.6°. All fractures healed uneventfully. There was no complete radial head necrosis but one partial. Four cases of heterotopic ossification were detected: Hastings classification I (n = 2), IIb (n = 1), IIIb (n = 1).ORIF of radial head fractures using locking plates can lead to good and excellent results. Modern implants may allow for reconstruction of comminuted fractures avoiding arthroplasty in these young patients.

The distal forearm fracture is the most common injury (40%) in pediatric traumatology.The treatment of distal forearm fractures in the growth phase contains two contrasting phenomena which are incompatible with the patient's interests and are discussed in this article.A selective literature search was carried out and selected cases are discussed.On the one hand there is a unique property of the juvenile skeleton with an enormous potential for spontaneous correction enabling conservative treatment for the majority of fractures. This generally leads to healing without functional or cosmetic defects, even in cases of some minor residual angulations. In contrast, high rates of overtreatment are observed, such as unnecessary or repetitive reductions and operative interventions, which are not only the result of ignorance of the growth prognosis and of correct conservative techniques but also of economic factors as a consequence of medical economization as well as positive experiences gained in adults but which cannot be transferred to children. The management of distal forearm fractures should be reserved for unstable fracture types especially in adolescent patients with limited age-dependent potential for spontaneous correction. Angulated fractures should be treated using cast wedging in order to reduce angulation to a reasonable extent. The most frequently occurring stable torus fractures require immobilization only for analgesic reasons. Intolerable angulations as well as completely dislocated fractures are treated by closed reduction and stabilized with a Kirschner wire osteosynthesis depending on age.Treatment of distal forearm fractures should be appropriate for children as well as highly efficient, by using a minimal amount of effort. Current forms of overtreatment have to be avoided because of moral and in particular economic reasons.

A 74-year-old woman sustained a fracture of the distal radius with an additional fracture of the styloid process of the ulna due to a fall. After reduction under local anesthesia immobilization treatment in a forearm cast was initiated. Despite increasing secondary dislocation during radiological x-ray follow-up control, the bone was described as correctly aligned by the treating physician and non-operative treatment was continued. After a total treatment period of 9 months including 7 months of physiotherapy the patient still presented a limited range of motion and local soft tissue swelling of the right wrist. The patient filed a complaint for wrong treatment of the distal radius fracture resulting in severe pain and considerable deformity of the right wrist leading to a significant handicap during activities of daily living. The expert opinion of the arbitration board ascertained a case of medical malpractice in terms of the indications. Due to the initial presence of criteria of radiological instability, an operative treatment had already been indicated at the first presentation. In addition, secondary dislocation during radiological follow-up examination should have led to conversion of treatment in favor of surgery. The arbitration board furthermore concluded that iatrogenic malpractice led to a severe deformity of the right wrist which would result in a loss of grip strength and future arthritic deformation of the wrist. Legal aspects of the case are discussed.

Due to the specific position on a snowboard, crashes often result in snowboard-specific injuries. As snowboarding nowadays represents a mass sport, treatment of injured snowboarders is becoming common clinical practice. Optimal treatment makes knowledge about snowboard-specific injuries and their underlying mechanisms mandatory. The upper extremities are most frequently affected, with the most frequent injury being the distal radius fracture. Because especially beginners are more often injured, prevention strategies seem to be promising. It was demonstrated that wrist-protection guards are able to decrease the risk of suffering a distal radius fracture. Moreover, use of a helmet was also shown to be protective. Against this background, wearing protective gear such as wrist guards and helmets is strongly recommended to decrease injury severity and frequency.

Radial head arthroplasty is the treatment of choice for non-reconstructble radial head fractures. Solid prostheses made of metal or pyocarbon can restore valgus stability of the elbow independent of design or stem fixation. Short-term and mid-term results show mostly good to excellent results without any evident differences between the different prosthesis philosophies. In order to obtain good results it is important to implant the prosthesis correctly without overfilling and to judge concomitant ligament injuries correctly. This article discusses the anatomical and biomechanical basis of radial head arthroplasty as well as the surgical technique and radiological diagnosis of overfilling.

Posttraumatic dystrophy manifests as signs and symptoms of endothelial dysfunction in the microcirculation with pronounced involvement of arteriovenous (AV) anastomosis.Blood gas analysis was performed in 28 patients with persistent painful swelling 6-14 weeks after distal radius fracture or hand injury. The patients showed higher levels of venous oxygenation on the affected side in comparison to the contralateral arm. Furthermore, an increased perfusion and an AV shunt situation were proven by radionuclide angiography. These findings correlate with insufficient oxygen utilization by the tissue (dystrophy = capillary malperfusion). Pathophysiologically, complex processes must be assumed which require a multimodal therapy and treatment focuses on open AV shunts.The disastrous consequences of hand dystrophy (loss of function due to fibrosis) could be prevented in all patients. Statistical analyses between affected and normal hands showed significant differences.Posttraumatic dystrophy needs early detection for successful therapy and should not be identified under the umbrella term "complex regional pain syndrome" (CRPS).

Distal radius fractures are the most common fractures in humans and early surgical intervention with modern plating systems is becoming increasingly more established to avoid secondary dislocation. Even fractures with slight dislocations are adequately stabilized and the affinity for surgical intervention and plating procedures is applied to secure these simple fractures. In this aspect the surgical indications are significantly dependent on X-ray examination results. Further diagnostics with respect to ligamentous and soft tissue injury are the exception although the impact energy which creates osseus fractures is sufficient by far to destroy functional soft tissue, cartilage and ligaments. The ongoing development of wrist arthroscopy enables new possibilities especially concerning concomitant articular involvement of distal radius fractures. Arthroscopy-assisted reduction and stabilization as well as minimally invasive soft tissue repair and loose body removal seem to be adequate methods to improve the surgical treatment of distal radius fractures.

The therapeutic algorithm for the treatment of Mason type II radial head fractures is still controversially discussed. This study describes the technique of percutaneous fracture reduction without additional internal fixation of the radial head as an alternative to open reduction and presents the results of the method.The data from 26 out of 30 patients with a Mason type II radial head fracture who had been consecutively treated with percutaneous fracture reduction were evaluated retrospectively. The analysis comprised the disabilities of shoulder and hand (DASH) score, the Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) and data from the radiological examinations.The average follow-up time was 21 months (range 6-47 months). In 22 cases (85 %) an anatomical reduction could be achieved, 2 cases (8 %) showed a complete redislocation of the fragment and 2 cases (8 %) a partial redislocation. The average DASH score was 5.6 points (range 0-56) and the average MEPS was 93.8 (range 60-100). Only 4 patients (15 %) reported persisting functional impairment with a DASH score10.The method of percutaneous reduction of radial head fractures without additional internal fixation in Mason type II fractures has been demonstrated to be a good alternative to open reduction.

The combination of proximal and distal radius and ulna fractures with scapholunate ligament injury is extremely rare and this type of injury may potentially only be possible in osteoporotic bone. In this case report this rare injury is discussed, a possible therapy regime is presented and a typical postoperative complication is shown.

In recent years a trend has evolved from unidirectional to multidirectional locking plates. Different technical solutions have been developed and the quality of the angle stability of all methods has been described as sufficient. Published trials describing the necessary shearing forces are rarely published. We report two cases with loss of reduction after the use of a variable angle locking implant used in distal radius fractures.

The functional outcome of surgically treated dislocated fractures of the distal radius is limited and does not correlate with radiographic results. Additional carpal lesions are assumed to be the cause. This study has evaluated which carpal lesions are associated with dislocated fractures of the distal radius.A total of 104 consecutive patients with dislocated fractures of the distal radius were included in the study. The injured wrist was examined by radiography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine additional carpal lesions.Radiographically 51 of the 104 fractures presented as type A according to the AO classification, 10 as type B and 39 as type C. The CT scan detected that only 5 of the 51 type A fractures were exclusively metaphyseal fractures. All type A fractures were associated with ligamental lesions in MRI.The results of the study confirm the hypothesis that every dislocated fracture of the distal radius is a combined carpal trauma associated with additional osseous and/or ligamental lesions.

The treatment of fractures of the radial head is commonly based on the Mason classification. Fractures of the radial head caused by a dislocation of the elbow are summarized as Mason type IV fractures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcome and the influence of additional ligamentous injuries after reconstruction of fractures of the radial head.One hundred three patients with a fracture of the radial head were treated by open reduction and internal fixation between 2004 and 2009. Fifty-eight of them could be evaluated at an average of 3.6 years after surgery. Forty-one patients had no additional ligamentous injury and 17 had a fracture combined with complete dislocation of the elbow. At the final follow-up examination, all patients were assessed clinically, bilateral radiographs were taken, and the Broberg and Morrey and KellgrenLawrence scores were determined.Ten patients had a Mason type II, 31 a Mason type III and 17 a Mason type IV fracture. With regard to the Broberg and Morrey score, patients without ligamentous injury achieved a significantly better functional outcome, with good to excellent results in 97.5% of cases compared to 64.6% for patients with ligamentous injuries. Twelve percent of the patients without ligamentous injury and 47% of the patients with ligamentous injuries developed moderate or severe posttraumatic arthritis. Heterotopic ossification was found in 19.5% of the patients without and in 47% of those with ligamentous injury.Reconstruction of radial head fractures without ligamentous instability led to significantly superior functional results and lower rates of posttraumatic arthritis and heterotopic ossifications than osteosynthesis of fractures with additional ligamentous injury. In these cases primary endoprosthetic replacement might be considered.

How effective is open reduction and internal fixation with palmar locking plates compared to closed reduction and internal fixation with K-wires in the treatment of fractures of the distal radius?A systematic review of the literature was performed for the years 2002 to 2012 to find controlled studies comparing K-wires and locking palmar plates. Follow-up, complications, functional results, radiographic results and peculiarities of the studies were analyzed.A total of five controlled studies could be found and additionally the data of one unpublished controlled prospective study were added. In two studies a better function (DASH) could be achieved following palmar locking plate osteosynthesis, in one study better results were found following K-wire osteosynthesis and three studies found no significant differences. Ulna variation was found to be better restored following palmar locking plate osteosynthesis in two, palmar inclination in two and radioulnar inclination in one study. There were 7.3% complications following palmar locking plate osteosynthesis compared to 20% following K-wire fixation; however, the complications following plate osteosynthesis were more severe.Palmar locking plates as well as K-wire fixation are suitable techniques for the treatment of fractures of the distal radius. The higher stability of locking plates seems to lead to an earlier functional recovery but this possible advantage disappears in the long-term follow-up.

Complex fragmentation of the distal radial articular surface often results in three major problems: some fragments are too small for stabilisation by standard plates or screws; in addition, substantial loss of articular surfaces and metaphyseal/subchondral bony defects frequently occur.To solve these problems the following strategy was developed: the fixation of small articular fragments was performed by small K-wires that were placed subchondrally and countersunk in the bone. In case of lost articular surfaces a silicone foil was inserted intra-articularly to induce a cartilage-like tissue. Bony defects were replaced by iliac crest bone grafts. Additional stability was achieved by dorsal and volar plate fixation or bridge plating.An average of 53° of extension, 44° of flexion, 74° of pronation, and 66° of supination were achieved. The grip strength was an average of 61% of that in the contralateral limb. The average radiographic measurements were -5° of palmar inclination, 21° of ulnar inclination, and 0 mm of positive ulnar variance. A good or excellent functional result was achieved for five of seven wrists according to the rating system of Gartland and Werley. According to the modified Mayo Wrist Score four of five wrists achieved a good and one a fair result.The DASH Score averaged 19 (6-59) points.The applied treatment resulted in stable, mobile wrists with reasonable alignment and nearly even articular surfaces. The functional results were similar to those reported by other authors for less complex distal radius fractures. This strategy seems to be a rational approach to the reconstruction of severely comminuted intra-articular fractures of the distal radius.

Distal radius fractures continue to show significant complication rates after operative treatment with locked plating. Failure occurs by screw loosening or screw penetration in the distal fragment. Placement of additional screws may enhance the stiffness of fracture fixation. The aim of this study was to determine the fatigue properties of different screw configurations in distal radius plate osteosynthesis with biomechanical tests and finite element analysis (FEA).Unstable distal radius fractures were created in 12 human cadaveric bone specimens and were fixed with volar locking plates. Group 4SC was fixed with four screws in the distal row and group 6SC with two additional screws the row below. Dynamic loading was applied physiologically. The radial shortening, the angulation of the distal fragment and the failure mechanism were determined by experimental tests and were further elucidated by FEA.Group 6SC showed a significantly lower radial shortening and inclination. Breakage of the screws within the plate was noted in group 4SC, while moderate screw penetration was observed in group 6SC. FEA confirmed the biomechanical tests. In group 4SC elevated von Mises strain in the locking mechanism explained the inclination of the screws and the distal fragment. The elastic strain in group 6SC was increased at the screw-bone interface which explained the resulting screw penetration.The failure mechanism in volar plating of distal radius fractures depended on the number of screws and their configuration. Using two more screws increases construct stiffness and angular stability under dynamic loading. However, increased stiffness also promoted screw penetration mainly in osteoporotic bone. Compared to screw penetration, loss of reposition and inclination of the distal fragment observed in the 4SC configuration is more likely to result in clinical complications.

Combined forearm fractures are identified according to their location as Galeazzi, Monteggia or Essex-Lopresti injuries. The feature common to these three forms is the combination of a forearm fracture with instability of the distal or proximal radio-ulnar joint. The combination of Galeazzi and Monteggia fractures in the same extremity is an exceedingly rare occurrence. It has been reported in eight cases including two pediatric patients worldwide. In this case report the rare occurrence of the combination of these injuries and the possibility of pitfalls in the operative treatment are presented.

With regard to the treatment of non-reconstructable radial head fractures, both the resection and the implantation of a prosthesis are considered. Various studies have shown poor results concerning the resection of the radial head with accompanying osteoligamentous injuries. Due to these experiences, different types of prosthesis have been developed. However, the majority of them were not convincing. Judet developed a type of a bipolar prosthesis which had been modeled on the anatomy of the radial head. The aim of our retrospective study consists in examining the results of the Judet prosthesis.Between 1995 and 2007, 50 patients were treated with an arthroplasty. These were, corresponding to the classification by McKee and Jupiter, 19 type III and 31 type IV fractures. Thirty patients were available for a follow-up after 2.5 years on average.According to the Morrey Score, 16 very good, 7 good, 3 fair and 4 bad results could be obtained. Following the criteria of Radin and Riseborough, 17 patients achieved a good, 9 a fair and 4 a bad result. The complications which appeared were: one patient with aseptic loosening, one patient with luxation of a prosthesis, one persistent radial joint instability, three patients with heterotopic ossification and four patients with protrusion relative to the capitulum humeri.

In contrast to the common intra- or extra-articular fractures of the distal radius, radiocarpal fracture dislocations are rare injuries. Concerning this issue, only a small number of publications can be found. Nevertheless, it is important to be informed about this injury since prompt operative treatment is often required and immobilization alone will not be sufficient. Sometimes, radiocarpal fracture dislocations are combined with carpal injuries. In such cases, both the radiocarpal dislocation and carpal injury have to be treated. Diagnostic difficulties can lead to misinterpretation or underdiagnosis. Insufficient reduction and fixation may result in joint incongruity and subsequent osteoarthritis. Reconstruction of the radiocarpal ligaments is a substantial part of operative treatment.

The conservative as well as the operative treatment of distal radius fractures poses a risk of inadequate reduction or secondary dislocation. The consequences may be limited use of the hand with pain and restricted movement.Out of 21 patients with malunited fractures of the distal radius which were corrected operatively through a palmar approach, 19 have been assessed clinically as well as radiologically. The mean age was 60 years (range 45-84 years) and the mean follow-up period was 342 days. In 10 cases no autologous bone graft was inserted into the osteotomy gap.Postoperatively the average extension was 51.8° (±14.9°) and flexion 53.5° (±14°) as well as a supination of 83.8° (±11.2°) and pronation of 84.7° (±12°). The wrist score averaged 85 points, the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) functional value averaged 17 points. A mean preoperative palmar inclination of -20.9° (±10.1°) improved to 5.4° (±3.8°) after surgery and the ulnar inclination from 9° (±8.5°) to 18.1° (±6.2°).The correction of malunited distal radius fractures led to an improvement in function with less pain. Our data indicate that under certain circumstances interposition of an autologous bone graft does not need to be performed.

Both the radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints are often affected in"distal radius fractures". The incidence of this injury increases markedly among women over the age of 40. Bearing in mind the wide variety of distal radius fractures, a fixation system should be used which permits trans- and extra-articular application and subsequent reduction by means of distraction, as well as wrist mobilization. It is important that both reduction and position of the carpal bones can be checked. The possibility of extra-articular (radioradial) fixation should always be considered. AO group A2 and A3 fractures with sufficiently large fragments are suitable for this procedure. In other cases, transarticular application is advised. Complementary measures are justified in the case where two or more cortices in AP and lateral X-rays are destroyed. Adequate implants are also used to stabilize the articular surface. Large bone defects should be filled with corticocancellous material.

Non-displaced fractures of the radius head are in most cases treated conservatively. Open reduction and anatomical internal fixation of displaced radius head fractures is the method of choice. In comminuted fractures of the radius head (Mason type III and type IV) replacement with a radius head prosthesis achieves joint stability and prevents secondary complications, such as valgus elbow deformity and proximal radial migration. Modern anatomically formed prostheses show promising results in the medium-term view. Typical complications after radius head replacement are limited range of motion in the elbow joint, arthritis of the capitulum and heterotopic ossifications. In cases of capitulum arthritis, capitulum prostheses were developed to resurface the lateral compartment of the elbow joint. Short-term results are encouraging with improvements in pain and range of movement.

Following treatment of distal radius fractures poor functional results can still be found despite satisfactory radiological findings. This may be due to concomitant carpal lesions occurring together with these fractures. The aim of this prospective study was to analyze the clinical outcome depending on the type of fracture and concomitant carpal lesions.A total of 66 patients with distal radius fractures treated over a 1-year period could be assessed. The functional results were compared with the uninjured contralateral side. The follow-up examination included patient history, physical and radiographic examination as well as the DASH (Disability of the arm, shoulder and hand) questionnaire and the modified Mayo wrist score.The average follow-up time was 12.7 months and the mean age of the examined patients was 53 years. The fracture classification according to AO (AO Working party for osteosynthesis questions) showed 32% type A, 10% type B and 58% type C fractures. In 55% a concomitant carpal lesion was found and 44% of the patients required surgical treatment. All fractures united without complications. In all cases X-rays showed no loss of reduction postoperatively. Overall grip strength and wrist motion was reduced to 81% compared to the uninjured side. Patients regained good function represented in a mean DASH score of 24.8 points and a Mayo score of 70.6 points. The number of complete intraarticular fractures (type C) was significantly higher in patients who needed surgical treatment for carpal lesions compared to the groups where concomitant carpal lesions did not require invasive treatment or those where no carpal lesions were found. However, due to the operative treatment a comparable functional result could be obtained in all groups independent of the injury severity.The results demonstrate, if a correct restoration and surgical stabilization technique is used, clinical outcome following fractures of the distal radius also depends on an optimized management of concomitant carpal lesions.

The management of fractures of the distal radius continues to evolve. New operative strategies have recently been developed including the use of fixed-angle plates. This study reviews the results of 20 patients with fractures of the distal radius treated with a new multidirectional fixed angle plate.A total of 20 patients with closed Colles type fractures of the distal radius were treated with Medartis (Aptus 2.5) palmar fixed-angle plates. Surgery was performed under plexus anesthesia using the standard or extended flexor carpi radialis (FCR) approach. Patients were evaluated prospectively with a mean follow-up of 26 weeks (range 23-28 weeks). Pain, range of motion, grip strength, DASH score, modified Mayo wrist score and radiographs were obtained. The level of significance was set at 95% and the χ(2) and ANOVA tests in combination with a post hoc Tukey test were used for statistical analysis.The average range of motion (ROM) in extension-flexion was 87° (76% of the contralateral side) and in ulnar-radial deviation 42° (88% of the contralateral side). Pain values (visual analogue scale 0-100) at follow-up were 3 (without stress) and 24 (with stress). Grip strength improved to 84% of the contralateral side, the mean DASH score was 13 points and the modified Mayo wrist score confirmed the excellent results with a mean value of 83±27 points. Radiological examination showed a satisfactory result with an ulna variance of 0.9±0.4 mm, radio-ulnar inclination of 21±5° and palmar inclination of 4±6°.Our data show that treating unstable distal radius fractures with multidirectional palmar fixed-angle plates is reliable and effective and produces good early functional and radiological results. However, long-term results with a larger number of patients and randomized prospective studies comparing this technique with other established procedures are required.

There are well-defined criteria for the treatment of distal radius fractures but the impact of an unrepaired fracture of the styloid process of the ulnar on recovery after operative treatment is uncertain. This study evaluated radiological and functional results after different operative treatment procedures of distal radius fractures in patients with an untreated fracture of the styloid process of the ulna and those without such a fracture.Out of 480 patients with operatively treated distal radius fractures 238 were examined at least 1 year after injury. The fracture of the styloid process of the ulna was not repaired. Three groups (patients without a fracture of the styloid process of the ulna, patients with a tip fracture and those with a basal fracture) were evaluated by multivariate analysis (MANOVA) in order to detect influences of the fracture of the styloid process of the ulna on the radiological and functional results.Neither the existence nor the location of the fracture of the styloid process of the ulna had a significant effect on the radiological and functional results (p(function)=0,849, p(radiology)=0,330, p(scores)=0,426, MANOVA).The repair of a fracture of the styloid process of the ulna is not necessary if reduction and fixation of the distal radius fracture is anatomical and stable.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcome after K-wire pinning of distal radius fractures with a minimum follow-up period of 5 years.A total of 189 patients with an isolated fracture of the distal radius were treated between 1998 and 2002 and 100 were evaluated at an average of 5.6 years after the surgery. At the final follow-up examination all patients were assessed clinically and bilateral radiographs were taken.Of the patients 37 had an A type fracture, 8 a B type and 55 a C type according to the AO classification and 86% achieved good to excellent results based on the Gartland and Werley and Disability of Arm, Shoulder, Hand (DASH) scores. Patients were divided in to two groups. Group A included patients with fractures with a primary palmar inclination greater than -20° (range -20° to 10°) and group B with fractures with a primary palmar inclination less than -20° (range -45° to -20°). Secondary loss of reduction was significant higher in group B compared to group A (group B: 8.3°, group A: 1.6°, p0.05). In 8 out of 11 patients of group B an osteoporosis was found. Functionally no difference was detected between the two groups. Radial shortening of over 4 mm resulted in a significant reduction (36%) of prosupination and supination. No other influence of the radiological results on the functional or subjective outcome was found. Superficial infection of the K-wire occurred in 6 cases, whereas early K-wire removal was performed in 2 cases, 8 patients complained of dysesthesia in the area of the superficial radial nerve and 5 patients developed an early stage of the complex regional pain syndrome.K-wire pinning cannot be routinely recommended. However, in cases of A2, A3 and C1 fractures, a primary dorsal dislocation of less than -20° and in patients without low bone mineral density, K-wire pinning leads to a high rate of radiological, functional good results.

In a prospective study a total of 49 fractures in 47 patients were treated with open reduction and palmar plate osteosynthesis. The results were evaluated radiologically, clinically and with the disability of arm-shoulder-hand (DASH) score. The emphasis was on early postoperative results. The patients consisted of 11 men and 36 women aged 21–85 years old. Very good or good results were achieved in 79.6% of the patients, a fair result in 16.3% and a poor result in 4.1% according to the Lidström criteria. In 65.9% of cases very good or good functional results were achieved, in 22.7% fair and in 11.4% only poor results. The DASH score showed high patient satisfaction in 70.2%, moderate satisfaction in 25.5% and only little satisfaction in 4.3% of patients. Complications occurred in 14.3% of patients and the average duration of sick leave was 45.8 days. Open reduction of distal radius fractures using palmar plates with multi-axial angular stability shows good radiological and functional results even shortly after the operation.

Posttraumatic deformities with need for surgical correction are rare and demanding in the pediatric population. The consequences of a bad outcome may last a life time. The best prevention of deformities around the elbow joint is proper initial treatment. The most common deformities are cubitus varus, cubitus valgus, chronic dislocation of the radial head and pseudarthrosis of the radial condyle. In contrast to the wide spread opinion to await the effect of the further growth, the deformity should be treated contemporarily to the underlying injury. This strategy will optimize the outcome. In special cases treatment with delay is justified.

Due to advances in the development of the unidirectional locking plates there is now an increased use of multidirectional palmar locking plates in the treatment of distal radius factures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a possible improvement of the treatment and results.This prospective cohort study investigated 40 patients with C1 and C2 Colles' fractures who had been treated with unidirectional and multidirectional locking plates. The average time for the follow-up examinations was 12.3 months (range 12-15 months) after surgery. The intra-operative functional (neutral-zero method), radiological and subjective (DASH score, VAS) results were evaluated.The intra-operative fluoroscopy time of the unidirectional group was 58 s shorter compared to the multidirectional group. All fractures healed without any complication. The radiological, subjective (DASH score) and objective results for both groups were good and showed no differences.Unidirectional palmar locking plates are equally suited for the therapy of C1 and C2 fractures as multidirectional palmar locking plates but multidirectional plates require a longer fluoroscopy time.

This study investigated the radiographic and functional outcomes of two different methods for treating fractures of the distal part of the radius.In a prospective controlled study patients with forearm fractures were randomized by age, handedness, and fracture type.The study included 120 patients, with a mean age of 66 years. Forty-nine percent of the fractures were extraarticular, and 51% were intraarticular. In the group treated with volar locking compression plates, six patients needed operative decompression of the median nerve and one needed reconstruction of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon. The group with dorsal plating had three complications requiring operative treatment: one deep infection, one dislocation of the plate, and one reconstruction of the EPL tendon. The radiological results for the Stewart 1 score showed 68% excellent results in volar locking compression plating compared with 57% in dorsal plating. Regarding functional outcome, 48% with volar plating showed excellent results compared with 22% with dorsal plating, as measured by the Stewart 2 score.Despite significant advantages of the volar locked compression plating, subjective satisfaction did not differ between the two groups.

Metaphyseal forearm fractures are a common pathology in any emergency department. The standard diagnostic procedure involves X-rays of the forearm and wrist. As former studies have shown that these fractures can be visualized using ultrasound, we compared the accuracy of sonographic and X-ray diagnostics.From January 2007 to May 2008, a total of 93 patients aged between 0 and 12 years with forearm trauma were initially examined using a 7.5-Mhz linear transducer. After diagnosis, axis deviation and treatment were fixed and standard X-rays were taken. The results of the two diagnostic procedures were compared. The examiners were doctors in training or consultants and underwent no specific training.We found 77 fractures in 64 patients (50 radius, 1 ulna, 13 radius and ulna). The sensitivity of ultrasound diagnostics was 94% and the specificity 99% compared with X-ray diagnosis. Mean axis deviation differences were 1.8 degrees (radius) and 0.7 degrees (ulna).Ultrasound seems to be a valuable and safe alternative to X-ray diagnosis. Patients with inconclusive findings should undergo X-ray diagnosis.

This study is the first to document the quality of inpatient care provided to elderly patients with distal radius fracture in Germany.Inpatient care provided to 1,201 patients age 65 or older with isolated distal radius fracture was documented in a prospective cohort study conducted at 242 acute care clinics in Germany between January 2002 and September 2003.The median patient age was 75, and nearly 90% of patients were female. Approximately 71% of patients were classified as ASA I or II, and 28% were ASA III. The most common comorbidity was arterial hypertension (60%). Seventy-five percent of patients were admitted on the day of the accident; of these, 63% had surgery on the same day, and 20% on the following day. The primary form of anaesthesia was general anaesthesia (55%). The predominant fracture management procedure was percutaneous K-wire osteosynthesis (56% of cases), followed by plate osteosynthesis (44%). The length of hospital stay after plate osteosynthesis (median 8.5 days) was more than twice as long as after K-wire osteosynthesis (median 4 days). The rate of postoperative complications typical of each procedure was around 10%. Roughly 90% of patients were discharged to home. Although evidence of osteoporosis was observed in 62% of women and 50% of men, only 7.9% of patients were prescribed osteoporosis-specific medication.Unexpected findings were the predominance of general anaesthesia and percutaneous K-wire osteosynthesis. Osteoporosis, affecting a majority of elderly women, is neglected in clinical practice. Good quality of care is reflected by the low rate of complications.