Early active mobilisation of volar plate avulsion fractures

This is a prospective follow up of 190 consecutive cases of volar plate avulsion fractures. A standard management regimen of immediate, active movement was followed in all cases and physiotherapy was rarely required. Of the 190 patients, 162 were followed up for at least one year. An excellent or good outcome was achieved in 98 per cent. Patients presenting more than three weeks from injury had a worse outcome. The size and displacement of the avulsed fragment did not affect the outcome. For the stable joint, early active mobilisation with minimal or no splintage provides a good result.