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None of the classification systems for distal radius fractures is ideal. However a validated system to analyze these fractures is available that is based on the "metaphysis, epiphysis, ulna" (MEU) classification and the "patient, accident, fracture" (PAF) system. It makes it possible to understand the injury and select the best treatment.

The authors present the case of a patient with a rare combination of open volar radiocarpal dislocation and complete destruction of the dorsal capsule-ligament complex and tendons. The treatment consisted of open reduction and arthrorisis (temporary arthrodesis during 45 days) with four K-wires (radiocarpal and radioulnar). The capsule-ligament complex was fixed with anchors and the extensor tendons were repaired by suturing. A long-arm cast was applied for six weeks. After an 18-month follow-up, the Cooney-modified Green and O'Brien score was 70 and the wrist range of motion was 85°. Dynamic intraoperative X-rays are needed to look for bone or ligament (intracarpal or radioulnocarpal) injuries. Arthrography, arthroscopy or MRI may provide additional information. In cases of stable lesions without intracarpal ligament injuries, conservative treatment may be sufficient. Otherwise, surgical treatment is required, using temporary external fixation or arthrorisis (temporary arthrodesis) associated with anatomic repair of capsular ligaments. The average duration of postoperative immobilization is 6.6 weeks. An external fixator seems to be useful for reduction and for placing optimal tension on repaired ligament repair. Twenty-three cases of volar radiocarpal dislocation are described in published studies. None of them was associated with bone, tendon, skin or capsule-ligament complex injuries. Few studies describe the long-term functional and radiological outcomes of these injuries.