Pin reduction and fixation of volar fracture fragments of distal radius fractures via the flexor carpi radialis tendon.
BACKGROUND
The objective of this study was to evaluate a technique for reduction and stabilization of residually displaced volar fragments in intraarticular distal radius fractures.


METHODS
A consecutive series of patients with AO type C3 distal radius fractures treated by one surgeon were studied. Percutaneously placed pins were placed through the flexor carpi radialis tendon to reduce and stabilize volar fracture fragments of distal radius fractures when closed reduction was unsuccessful. The goal of treatment was to achieve less than 2 mm of articular congruity. Postoperative physiotherapy was protocol-based. A validated outcome measurement was used to evaluate patients.


RESULTS
Of 117 patients, 10 met the inclusion criteria. In all patients, a successful reduction of the volar fragment was achieved with less than 2 mm of residual articular step-off. Reduction was maintained in 8 patients. Follow-up averaged 29 months, and there were no complications associated with the technique. All patients were satisfied with the treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the final outcome of patients with this type of fracture depends on many factors, in the small series of patients described, a satisfactory reduction was possible using the describe technique. Transtendinous pinning is a new, undescribed technique that is useful in the treatment of such specific injuries.
Ziran
B H
BH
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Pennsylvania, USA.
Scheel
M
M
Keith
M W
MW
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001858:Bone Nails; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D013710:Tendons / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome