title: Delayed ruptures of the extensor tendon secondary to the use of volar locking compression plates for distal radial fractures.
abstract: The use of volar locking compression plates for the treatment of fractures of the distal radius is becoming increasingly popular because of the stable biomechanical construct, less soft-tissue disturbance and early mobilisation of the wrist. A few studies have reported complications such as rupture of flexor tendons. We describe three cases of rupture of extensor tendons after the use of volar locking compression plates. We recommend extreme care when drilling and placing the distal radial screws to prevent damaging the extensor tendons.
authors.affiliation: Birmingam Hand Centre, Selly Oak Hospital, University Hospital Birmingham, Raddlebarn Road, Birmingham, UK.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Al-Rashid
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Theivendran
authors.forename: M A C
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Craigen
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001860:Bone Plates / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012421:Rupture / Q000209:etiology; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000209:etiology*; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*