The Kapandji technique for fixation of distal radius fractures--a biomechanical comparison of primary stability

Kirschner Wire Fixation in Dorsally Displaced Distal Radius Fractures: A Biomechanical Evaluation

Background  There is currently no consensus for the optimum configuration and number of Kirschner wires (K-wires) to use for the stabilization of dorsally displaced distal radius fractures. In this biomechanical study, we compared the load to failure and stiffness of four common K-wire configurations to identify the strongest construct for use in extra-articular dorsally displaced distal radius fractures. Case Description  We created a standard distal radius fracture model in turkey tarsometatarsi which was stabilized using two or three K-wires (1.6 mm) in four different configurations. Following a power calculation, 10 fracture models of each configuration underwent testing in cantilever bending and axial compression. Literature Review  Recent randomized trials have shown no evidence that volar locking plates are superior to K-wires for the treatment of dorsally displaced distal radius fractures. This has led to an increase in the popularity of much cheaper K-wires. Several different K-wire techniques have been described but there is no strong evidence to determine which is the optimal configuration and number of wires. Clinical Relevance  The three-wire interfragmentary configuration was stiffer than the three-wire Kapandji in axial compression and cantilever bending. There was no difference in load to failure in cantilever bending or axial compression. The three-wire interfragmentary technique is the stiffest configuration of K-wires for dorsally displaced distal radius fractures. The two-wire Kapandji technique was significantly weaker than the other configurations, especially in cantilever bending. Conclusion  The authors recommend to always use three wires for percutaneous pinning and never to use two intrafocal wires alone.

FIXATION OF FRACTURES OF THE DISTAL EXTREMITY OF THE RADIUS USING THE MODIFIED KAPANDJI TECHNIQUE: EVALUATION OF THE RADIOLOGICAL RESULTS

To demonstrate a simple and efficacious option for treating fractures of the distal extremity of the radius using Kirschner wires. Methods: Between September 2008 and April 2009, 48 patients with fractures of the distal extremity of the radius, classified as A3 according to the AO classification, were treated surgically using a modification of the Kapandji technique. Results: Out of the 48 wrists operated, 42 (87.5%) presented postoperative measurements within the acceptable limits. We used the parameters of McQuenn and Caspers who considered that the radial angulation should be wider than 19° and the volar angulation should be narrower than -12°. All the postoperative volar inclination measurements were narrower than -3°. The mean preoperative radial inclination was 13.14° and the mean postoperative value was 21.18°. The mean preoperative volar inclination was 28.75° and the mean postoperative value was 3.31°. The mean preoperative radial height was 5.25 mm and the mean postoperative value was 9.48 mm. Conclusion: The technique described here had excellent stability for treating fractures of the distal extremity of the radius classified as A3. It was easy to implement and minimally invasive, with minimal surgical complications, and it was inexpensive.

Is there a Consensus in the Management of Distal Radial Fractures?

This unique postal survey was setup to assess the agreement on treatment options in displaced distal radius fractures and whether or not there existed a consensus amongst the surgeons contacted. With this in view we contacted 244 surgeons and 166 completed answers were received.We chose two common examples of displaced distal radius fractures. Case one was a 38 year old teacher with a closed, displaced extra-articular fracture (Frykman type II) of her left non-dominant hand and case two was a 42 year old carer, with a closed, displaced intra-articular fracture (Frykman type VII) of her right dominant wrist. There was a questionnaire included with these radiographs.In the first case, 82 (49%) surgeons favoured MUA + K-wiring, 47 (28%) favoured volar plating and 14 (8%) an external fixator. In the second case, 28 (17%) surgeons favoured MUA + K-wiring, 53 (32%) advocated volar plating and 33 (20%) an external fixator. Furthermore surgeons with specialist Upper limb interest were more likely to apply a volar plate (63% in either case) whilst the surgeons with general or other areas of expertise (18% in first case and 23% for second case).In conclusion there is no consensus among the Orthopaedic surgeons in treating displaced distal radial fractures. A multicentered randomized clinical trial would help elucidate the best treatment options.

Biomechanical analysis of distal radius fractures using intramedullary Kirschner wires

Colles's fracture is the most common type of distal radius fracture. Surgically, it remains a challenge to restore radial height and volar tilt in order to regain optimal wrist function. Ulson's procedure provides a dynamic effect on fixing fractured fragments and restoring joint function using two wires. However, the biomechanical influences of bone and wire remain critical issues for fracture reduction and bone union in Ulson's procedure. Based on elastic beam and foundation theory, this study formulated a closed-form mathematical model to investigate the effects of bone and wire parameters on wire deflection and bony reaction. The wire deflection and bony reaction were chosen as the indices of wrist stability and reduction within the post-operative period. The predicted results showed that greater bone strength, higher wire stiffness, and longer wire contact length provide a more stable wire-bone construct, thus facilitating fracture reduction and bone union. The wire stiffness had a much more significant effect on the construct stability compared with bone quality and contact length. In terms of entry point and insertion angle, surgical planning for the contact length was more important than bony quality for stabilizing the whole wire-bone construct.

Principles of fixation of osteoporotic fractures

Despite advances in the prevention and treatment of osteoporotic fractures, their prevalence continues to increase. Their operative treatment remains a challenge for the surgeon, often with unpredictable outcomes. This review highlights the current aspects of management of these fractures and focuses on advances in implant design and surgical technique.