Incidence of distal ulna fractures in a Swedish county: 74/100,000 person-years, most of them treated non-operatively

Internal Fixation for Unstable Distal Ulnar Fractures by 2.7 mm Semitubular Hook Plate

Objective: The purpose of this study is to investigate the outcomes of the use of a 2.7 mm semitubular hook plate for internal fixation of unstable metaphyseal ulnar fractures. Methods: Between January 2015 and July 2019, 30 consecutive patients with a recent unstable distal ulnar fracture were included in this prospective case series. All patients were subjected to follow-up with the time of union, range of motion, pain using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and radiological and functional outcome using the quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score and Mayo wrist score after 12 months. Results: The mean age of the patients was 45.3 ± 10 years. There were 18 males (60%) and 12 females (40%), and there were 16 patients associated with distal radius fractures (53.33%). According to the AO classification of distal ulnar fractures, 3 fractures were type A2.1 (10%), 9 were type A2.2 (30%), 8 fractures were type A2.3 (26.67%), and 10 fractures were type A3 (33.33%). All fractures have been united with a mean duration of 9 ± 1.4 weeks, the mean supination was 81.4° ± 3.5°, the mean pronation was 81.3° ± 4.5°, the mean flexion was = 71.7° ± 3.6°, and the mean extension was = 81.7° ± 3.4°. The mean VAS was 1.1 ± 1 points, the mean DASH score was 9.3 ± 5.6 points, and the mean Mayo wrist score was 88.5 ± 7.2 points; 17 patients were excellent (56.67%) and 10 patients were good (33.33%) while 3 patients had satisfactory outcome (10%). Conclusion: Using the 2.7 mm semitubular hook plate is a successful choice for internal fixation of unstable distal ulnar fractures isolated or associated with distal radius fractures with a favorable union time, functional outcome, and range of motion with minimal complications.

Distal radius fractures and distal ulna fractures among adults in a southern China county during the 11-year-period 2010 to 2020

Most distal radius fractures are associated with distal ulnar fractures. However, there is still a lack of consensus on the incidence of different types of distal ulnar fractures among adults in China. Therefore, we analyzed the incidence of distal radial fractures with and without associated distal ulnar fractures among adults in a southern China county from 2010 to 2020. Registry data of 2333 patients (2351 sides) with a distal radius fracture from 2010 to 2020 underwent evaluation, encompassing parameters such as age, sex, distal radius fracture classification, fracture side, and distal ulnar fracture classification. Distal radial fractures were classified according to the AO/OTA classification. Distal ulnar fractures were examined using the Q-modifier classification. 1719 females (73.68%) and 614 males (26.32%) were included in the study. Compared to men, the incidence of distal radial fractures accompanying distal ulnar fractures in women was approximately 2.8 times higher. Additionally, 49.81% of distal radius fractures were associated with fractures of the distal ulna, while 46.44% were associated with fractures of the ulnar styloid. The most common fracture type was that of the ulnar styloid Q1 (93.73%). The mean age of female patients was 61.71 ± 12.13, while male patients had an average age of 50.63 ± 14.86. The Q1 type was the most common type of distal ulnar fracture. We also found that more females (age range: 50 years or older) had type C distal radius fractures compared to males. However, type B fractures were observed more frequently in males than in females (range: 18-49 years). Osteoporosis was believed to be the main cause of fractures in women aged >50 years old. Moreover, the peak incidence of radius fractures in males was lower than in females in different age groups.

Pediatric distal both-bone forearm fractures treated with percutaneous pinning with or without ulna fixation: a retrospective cohort study from two centres

PURPOSE

This study investigated the clinical and functional outcomes of children with distal both-bone forearm fractures treated by fixation of the radius only compared to fixation of both the radius and ulna.

METHODS

A total of 71 patients from two centres with distal both-bone forearm fractures (30 in the ulna-yes group, 41 in the ulna-no group) who underwent closed reduction and percutaneous pinning treatment were retrospectively analysed. Operation duration, number of fluoroscopic exposures, loss of reduction rate and angulation based on radiographic assessment were compared between the two groups. Evaluation of wrist function including Gartland-Werley Score and Mayo Wrist Score were compared at the last follow-up.

RESULTS

Ulna angulation upon bone healing on the posteroanterior and the lateral plane of ulna-no group (6.11 ± 1.56°; 6.51 ± 1.69°) was significantly greater than that of ulna-yes group (4.49 ± 1.30°; 5.05 ± 2.18°) (p < 0.05). No significant difference was found in the loss of reduction rate between ulna-yes group (6.67%, 2/30) and the ulna-no group (4.88%, 2/41) (p > 0.05). At last follow-up, no significant difference was found between the Gartland-Werley Scores of the ulna-yes group (1.83 ± 3.25, range: 0-16) and ulna-no group (1.85 ± 2.72, range: 0-11.5) (p > 0.05). No significant difference was found between the Mayo Wrist Scores of the ulna-yes group (92.60 ± 6.20) and ulna-no group (92.15 ± 7.58) (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

For distal both-bone forearm fractures in children, fixation of only the radius appears to be a viable method with equivalent clinical outcomes compared to fixation of both the radius and ulna.

Treatment of the Distal Forearm Fracture by Volar Dual Window Approach

BACKGROUND

Distal forearm fractures were defined as distal radius fractures with concomitant distal ulna fractures, except ulna styloid fractures. Distal forearm fractures are common among geriatric populations, particularly those with osteoporosis. Conventionally, distal forearm fractures are reduced by a double incision approach; however, malreduction and instability of the distal radioulnar joint were not uncommon. We introduced a modified volar dual window approach to treat the distal forearm fracture and evaluate the functional outcomes and complications.

METHODS

From January 2020 to June 2023, 13 patients with distal forearm fractures underwent open reduction by the modified dual window approach with locking plate fixation. After surgery, splints were applied for two weeks, and the patients underwent postoperative hand therapy for three months. The mean Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores, range of motions, grip strength, postoperative radiographic parameters, and complications data were collected.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 12.1 months, and the mean age was 52.3 years. Average wrist flexion was 67°, extension 69°, pronation 81°, and supination 79°. Grip strength was 28.3 ± 11.5 kg, which was 88% of the uninjured opposite side. The Visual Analog Scale score during activities was recorded as 0.5 ± 0.9. The mean Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 14 ± 11.5. The postoperative radiographic parameters were as follows: radial height: 10.8 ± 1.7 mm, radial inclination: 22.6 ± 3.7°, volar tilting: 4.0 ± 3.9°, and ulnar variance: -0.4 ± 1.4 mm. All the patients achieved bone union at the final follow-up. Two patients underwent ulnar implant removal due to irritation symptoms. Neither infection, nor neurovascular injury, nor malreduction developed in these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified volar dual window approach can achieve good wrist function and distal forearm fracture reduction without increasing neurovascular or wound healing complications. This method is an alternative approach for distal forearm fracture, especially in comminuted distal ulna fracture or distal radioulnar joint incongruity.

Epidemiology of Distal Forearm Fracture: A Population-Based Study of 5426 Fractures

BACKGROUND

Despite intensive research into the epidemiology of adult distal forearm fractures, the literature is limited. This study aimed to provide a full overview of adult distal forearm fracture epidemiology, including incidence, fracture classification, mode of injury, and trauma mechanism in patients sustaining a distal forearm fracture, based on an accurate at-risk population with manually validated data leading to a high quality in data.

METHODS

This was a population-based cohort study with a manual review of X-rays and charts. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of adult distal forearm fractures. The study was based on an average at-risk population of 522 607 citizens. A total of 5426 adult distal forearm fractures were included during the study period. Females accounted for 4199 (77%) and males accounted for 1227 (23%) of fractures.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of adult distal forearm fractures was 207.7/100 000/year. Female incidence was 323.4/100 000/year, and male incidence was 93.3/100 000/year. A marked increase in incidence with increasing age was observed for females after 50 years of age. The incidence of distal radius fractures was 203.0/100 000/year, and the incidence of isolated ulna fractures was 3.8/100 000/year. The most common fracture type was an extra-articular AO type 2R3A (69%), and the most common mode of injury was a fall from own height (76%). A small non-trending year-to-year variation was observed during the 5-year study period.

CONCLUSION

Results show that adult distal forearm fractures are very common in women after the postmenopausal period. The overall incidence of adult distal forearm fractures was 207.8/100 000/year. Female incidence was 323.4/100 000/year.

Surgical fixation of distal ulna neck and head fractures

OBJECTIVES

Distal ulna plate fixation for ulnar neck and head fractures (excluding ulnar styloid fractures) aims to anatomically reduce the distal ulna fracture (DUF) by open reduction and internal fixation, while obtaining a stable construct allowing functional rehabilitation without need for cast immobilization.

INDICATIONS

Severe displacement, angulation or translation, as well as unstable or intra-articular fractures. Furthermore, multiple trauma or young patients in need of quick functional rehabilitation.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Inability to surgically address concomitant ipsilateral extremity fractures, thus, limiting early active rehabilitation. Stable, nondisplaced fractures. Need for bridging plate or external fixator of distal radiocarpal joint.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

An ulnar approach, with a straight incision between the extensor and flexor carpi ulnaris. Preservation of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve. Reduction and plate fixation with avoidance of plate impingement in the articular zone.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Postoperatively, an elastic bandage is applied for the first 24-48 h. In isolated DUF with stable fixation, a postoperative splint is often unnecessary and should be avoided. For the first four weeks, only light weightbearing of everyday activities is allowed to protect the osteosynthesis. Thereafter, heavier weightbearing and activities are allowed and can be increased as tolerated.

RESULTS

The best available evidence likely shows that for younger patients with a DUF, with or without concomitant distal radius fractures, open reduction and internal fixation can be safely achieved with good functional outcome and acceptable union and complication rates as long as proper technique is ensured.

Epidemiology of open limb fractures attended by ambulance clinicians in the out-of-hospital setting: A retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Open limb fractures are a time-critical orthopaedic emergency that present to jurisdictional ambulance services. This study describes the demographic characteristics and epidemiological profile of these patients METHODS: We undertook a retrospective analysis of all patients that presented to Queensland Ambulance Service with an open limb fracture (fracture to the humerus, radius/ulna, tibia/fibula or femur) over a two-year period (January 2018 - December 2019).

RESULTS

Overall, 1020 patients were included. Patients were mainly male (65.9%) and middle-aged (age 41 years, IQR 22-59). Fractures predominately occurred in the lower extremities (64.9%) with transport crashes the primary mechanism of injury (47.8%). The location of the fracture varied depending on the cause of injury, with femur fractures associated with motorcycle crashes, and fractures to the radius/ulna attributed to falls of greater than one metre (p = 0.001). The median prehospital episode of care was 83 min (IQR 62-144) with aeromedical air ambulance involvement and the attendance of a critical care paramedic or emergency physician, both independent factors that increased this time interval.

CONCLUSION

Open limb fractures are a relatively infrequent injury presentation encountered by ambulance clinicians. The characteristics of these patients is consistent with previously described national and international out-of-hospital trauma cohorts.

Attritional Extensor Digiti Minimi Tendon Rupture Associated With a Distal Ulna Fracture

Attritional extensor tendon ruptures are common in the setting of arthritis but, to our knowledge, have never previously been reported in the setting of a distal ulna fracture. This case report describes a 56-year-old male patient who sustained a left-hand dog bite resulting in crush injuries to the thumb and ring finger and a minimally displaced distal ulna fracture. The patient initially underwent appropriate surgical intervention for the thumb and finger crush injuries and non-operative management of the distal ulna fracture with splint immobilization. He experienced an extensor digiti minimi tendon (EDM) rupture two and a half weeks post-operatively. Radiographs demonstrated interval distal ulna fracture displacement with a prominent dorsal spike and absence of arthritis. He subsequently underwent distal ulna open reduction internal fixation and an extensor indicis proprius (EIP) to EDM tendon transfer. This case demonstrates a novel complication following non-operative management of a distal ulna fracture in which the prominent dorsal distal ulna resulted in direct irritation to the extensor tendon and subsequent attritional extensor tendon rupture. This potential complication should be considered in determining appropriate treatment for distal ulna fractures.

Management of Very Distal Ulna Fractures: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVES

To synthesize all-cause complications and reoperations data, and secondary clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes after the management of very distal ulna fractures (VDUFs) either nonoperatively or operatively.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for English-language articles from inception to February 17, 2022.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies reporting the nonoperative or operative management of VDUFs were eligible for inclusion. VDUFs were defined as either being Q2-Q5 distal ulna fractures using the OTA/AO Comprehensive Classification of Fractures for distal ulna fractures associated with distal radius fractures or being amenable to characterization by the classification system for ulnar head, neck and metaphyseal fractures by Biyani et al.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two reviewers independently extracted data from included studies. Study validity was assessed using the methodological index for nonrandomized studies.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Seventeen studies (512 VDUFs) were included for analysis. There were 209, 237, and 66 fractures in the nonoperative, open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), and distal ulna resection groups, respectively. Descriptive statistics including weighted mean values, standard deviations, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment of VDUFs with nonoperative management, ORIF, or distal ulna resection may all be acceptable treatment options in specific patient populations. Nonoperative management of VDUFs is a promising treatment strategy even for complex fracture patterns in patients 65 years of age or older. Despite higher reoperation rates, ORIF may be considered for the younger, high-demand patient. Distal ulna resection presents with very favorable functional outcomes in patients 65 years of age or older presenting with a complex VDUF with the lowest reoperation rate across all groups.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Comparison of surgical treatments for distal ulna fracture when combined with anterior locking plate fixation of distal radius in the over 70 age group

We conducted a retrospective multicentre study to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes, and complications of three surgical treatments of distal ulna fracture (DUF) when combined with anterior locking plate fixation for distal radial fracture (DRF) in patients over 70 years of age. We identified 1521 patients over 70 years of age who were diagnosed as having DRF and who underwent anterior locking plate fixation between 2015 and 2020, among which 122 cases of DUF were analysed. Three surgical treatment options for DUF were identified in this cohort: K-wire fixation (Group K), locking plate fixation (Group L) and Darrach procedure (Group D). The results of the analysis showed the total immobilization period in Group D to be the shortest among the three treatments. Functional outcomes were superior, and the rate of complications were smaller in Group D than in Group L. In addition, rotational range of motion was larger in Group D and Group L compared with Group K. In patients who are 70 years of age or older with combined unstable DRF and highly comminuted or displaced DUF, the Darrach procedure for DUF seems to be the most useful and reasonable treatment option once the fracture of the distal radius has been rigidly fixed.Level of evidence: IV.

Distal ulna fractures in adults-subcapitular, transverse fractures did not benefit from surgical treatment

INTRODUCTION

Fractures of the distal ulna, excluding the styloid, are rare. The cause of injury is often a fall on an outstretched hand with an extended wrist, and in most cases there is a concomitant distal radius fracture. The aims of this retrospective study were to investigate the results of the current treatment of distal ulna fractures in adults, with or without a concomitant distal radius fracture, and if a recently presented fracture classification could predict outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients, 18 years or older, treated for a fracture of the distal third of ulna in our county, were included. Fractures of the styloid tip were excluded. The radiographs of the fractures were independently classified by two specialists in radiology according to the 2018 AO/OTA classification. Follow-up was performed 5-7 years after the injury, through the questionnaire Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) and new radiographs of both wrists.

RESULTS

Ninety-six patients with 97 fractures were included and filled out the PRWE. 65 patients also had new radiographs taken. 79 patients were women and the mean age at the time of injury was 63 years (SD 14.5). The most common fracture class was the extra-articular transverse fracture, 2U3A2.3 (42%). We found that 40% of the fractures had been treated by internal fixation and only 2 fractures had not healed, one conservatively treated and one operated. The median PRWE was 15 (IQR 33.5). The PRWE score was significantly worse in the operated ulna fractures (p = 0.01) and this was also true for extra-articular transverse fractures 2U3A2.3 (p = 0.001). Initial displacement was more common in operated transverse fractures, but it could not be proven that this was the reason for the inferior result.

CONCLUSIONS

Distal ulna fractures almost always unite and the result is comparable to that of isolated distal radius fractures when measured by PRWE. Based on the opinions of the radiologists and how often a consensus discussion was needed for classification, we found the updated AO classification system difficult to use, if dependent only on standard radiographic views. In the present study, transverse extra-articular ulna fractures did not benefit from internal fixation regardless if associated with a distal radius fracture or isolated.

Outcomes of distal ulna locking plate in management of unstable distal ulna fractures: a prospective case series

INTRODUCTION

Given the absence of a satisfying plate system to deal with multifragmentary or subcapital distal ulnar fractures, the Distal Ulna Locking Plate (DUL, I.T.S. GmbH, Graz, Austria) could become a useful treatment option. This study aimed to evaluate the results of this anatomically pre-contoured plate regarding patients with unstable or displaced distal ulnar fractures.

METHODS

In a prospective clinical trial, 20 patients (18 female, two male; mean age 70 years (24-91 years)) with unstable or displaced distal ulna fractures between December 2010 and August 2015 were analyzed. All patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using the DUL. They were evaluated at three follow-up appointments at 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively regarding their bone healing, ulnar variance (UV), range of motion (ROM) and grip strength. Patient related outcomes were measured using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) questionnaires, and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The results after one year were compared to the outcome of the healthy contralateral side.

RESULTS

All fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation using the Distal Ulna Locking Plate healed within 6 months and showed stable ulnar variances after surgery. ROM (rotational plane 81.1 ± 9.0°, sagittal plane 55.1 ± 14.6°, frontal plane 33.0 ± 9.4°) and grip strength (18.7 ± 7.1 N) at the follow-up after 12 month had similar values compared with the uninjured side. The mean DASH score (36.4 ± 29.0), the PRWE-score (14.5 ± 27.0), and the VAS (at rest 0.5 ± 1.1, during activity 1.2 ± 2.4) after one year had no significant difference to the uninjured side. The surgeon's overall satisfaction rate regarding plate handling reached 81.8%.

CONCLUSION

Stabilization of unstable distal ulna fractures using the DUL restores nearly normal anatomy and function. Its pre-countered design, volar placement, and enhanced stability present a satisfying plate system.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

 The trial was retrospectively Registered at www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov on 16 December 2021 (Trial Registration Number: NCT05329012).

Poor reliability and reproducibility of 3 different radiographical classification systems for distal ulna fractures

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Classification of fractures can be valuable for research purposes but also in clinical work. Especially with  are fractures, such as distal ulna fractures, a treatment algorithm based on a classification can be helpful. We compared 3 different  classification systems of distal ulna fractures and investigated their reliability and reproducibility.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

patients with 97 fractures of the distal ulna, excluding the ulnar styloid, were included. All fractures were  independently classified by 3 observers according to the classification by Biyani, AO/OTA 2007, and AO/OTA 2018. The classification process was repeated after a minimum of 3 weeks. We used Kappa value analysis to determine inter- and intra-rater agreement.

RESULTS

The inter-rater agreement of the AO/OTA 2007 classification was judged as fair, ĸ 0.40, whereas the agreement of AO/OTA 2018 and Biyani was moderate at ĸ 0.42 and 0.43 respectively. The intra-rater agreement was judged as moderate for all classifications.

INTERPRETATION

The differences between the classifications were small and the overall impression was that neither of them was good enough to be of substantial clinical value. The Biyani classification, being developed specifically for distal ulna fractures, was the easiest and most fitting for the fracture patterns seen in our material, but lacking options for fractures of the distal diaphysis. Standard radiographs were considered insufficient for an accurate classification. A better radiographic method combined with a revised classification might improve accuracy, reliability, and reproducibility.

Surgical versus conservative management of distal radius fracture with coronal shift; a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Coronal shift is one of the most critical complications related to distal radius fracture (DRF), leading to instability in the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). Nevertheless, there is no unified approach for the managing DRF with coronal shift; therefore, the current study aims to compare the surgical versus conservative approach for the coronal shift due to DRF treatment.

METHODS

This is a randomized clinical trial conducted on 50 patients with distal radius fracture (type 1 based on Fernandez Classification of Distal Radius Fractures) with a coronal shift in 2014-17. The patients were randomly allocated to treatment conservatively (n=25) by a long arm casting or surgically (n=25) using a volar plate fixation. The patients were followed for 24 months, and primary outcomes included a functional score on the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire; pain score based on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and handgrip strength (HGS) measured via a dynamometer were assessed and compared.

RESULTS

Both approaches led to significant improvement in range of motion, pain complaint, DASH scores, and HGS at the end of the two-year follow-up (P-value <0.05). The comparison of the trend of changes in the two groups generally revealed a remarkable better range of motions, VAS, and HGS among the operated cases (P-value <0.05); however, DASH score did not differ (P-value >0.05).

CONCLUSION

The long-term outcomes of volar plate fixation for DRF management (bending fracture of metaphysis) plus coronal shift are notably superior to the conservative treatment; however, due to the limited information in this regard, further evaluations are strongly recommended.

The Effect of Ulnar Styloid Fractures on Patient-Reported Outcomes After Surgically Treated Distal Radial Fractures

Ulnar styloid fractures (USFs) are often associated with distal radial fractures (DRFs). When unstable DRFs are treated surgically, any associated USF is most commonly left untreated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a concomitant USF on outcome after surgical stabilization of a DRF.

Using autograft in the surgical treatment of isolated distal ulna fractures with open reduction internal fixation improves short-term clinical outcomes: 11 years of experience

BACKGROUND

Most of the studies on ulna fractures assess the treatment of fractures accompanied by other tissue injuries; thus, the number of studies focused directly on isolated distal ulna fractures are very few. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the short-term results of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and autograft+ORIF approaches in the treatment of isolated distal ulna fractures.

HYPOTHESIS

Using autograft in the surgical treatment of isolated distal ulna fractures with open reduction internal fixation improves short-term clinical outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The records of isolated distal ulna fractures (distal one-third) operated at the Maltepe University Hospital Orthopedics and Traumatology Clinic between January 2009 and December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The cases were divided into two groups according to surgical approach, ORIF (n=40) or autograft+ORIF (n=34).

RESULTS

The mean age was 41.55±12.42 years. 52.7% of the cases were female, 67.6% of the fractures were right-sided, and 37.8% of the traumas causing the fracture were high-energy trauma. There was no significant difference between the ORIF and autograft+ORIF groups in terms of age, gender, side and severity of trauma (p>0.05). It was found that pseudoarthrosis development was significantly more prevalent in the ORIF group (25%) compared to the autograft+ORIF group (5.9%) (p=0.026). The median (1st quartile-3rd quartile) time to union was 16 (14-17) weeks in the ORIF group, and 9.5 (8.5-12) weeks in the autograft+ORIF group. Compared to ORIF, the time to union was significantly shorter with the autograft+ORIF procedure (p<0.001). At both the 3rd and 12th month follow-up examinations, the autograft+ORIF group was found to have significantly higher MAYO score and grip strength, and lower DASH score, compared to the ORIF group.

DISCUSSION

When an autograft is used in addition to ORIF in the surgical treatment of isolated distal ulna fractures, the bone heals faster, pseudoarthrosis develops less frequently, and short-term (3rd and 12th months) functional results are better.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III; therapeutic study.

Conservative treatment of ulnar styloid fractures following volar-plate fixation of distal radius fractures: incidence of nonunion evaluated by computed tomography

PURPOSE

The first aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of ulnar styloid fractures (USFs) accompanied by distal radius fractures (DRFs), treated with volar locking plates. The fracture type of DRFs was evaluated by the classifications, based on computed tomography (CT) scan findings. The second aim was to investigate the bone union rate of USFs, depending on the fracture type of DRFs, by comparing union and nonunion groups in the USFs groups.

METHODS

Between May 2012 and December 2019, 239 consecutive patients with DRFs were treated. Of these patients, 177 DRFs met inclusion criteria. The fracture patterns of the DRFs, based on the classification, using CT scans, which included the AO classification, sagittal angulation, and axial fracture patterns of the articular surface of the distal radius in two-part intra-articular fractures were evaluated. The size of USFs, classified as a tip or base fracture was also investigated.

RESULTS

The incidence of USFs was significantly higher for AO types A and C than for type B. Analysis of the sagittal angulation of DRFs showed that the incidence of USFs was higher for the extension type than for the flexion type. Axial CT classification of two-part fractures revealed that DRFs with a dorsal fracture line was more frequent than the volar type of DRFs. These results suggested that dorsal displacement of DRFs was associated with a higher incidence of USFs. Finally, the analysis of the bone union rate of USFs revealed that AO classification and sagittal angulation were not correlated with bone union in USFs. However, it was found that a fracture line on the radial side of the radius had a significantly low rate of bone union, compared to a fracture line on the dorsal side. The size of USFs was also not correlated with the bone union rate.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence and the bone union rate of USFs have different patterns. The incidence of USFs was higher in the dorsal displacement type of DRFs. However, the bone union rate of USFs was lower for a fracture line on the radial side. Therefore, USFs with DRFs that have a fracture line on the radial side is a candidate for fixation to prevent nonunion.

Acute Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability: Evaluation and Treatment

This article reviews the anatomy and mechanics of pronation and supination (axial rotation) of the forearm through the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ), and the proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ). Injuries to the bones and/or ligaments of the forearm, wrist, or elbow can result in instability, pain, and limited rotation. Acute dislocations of the DRUJ commonly occur along with a fracture to the distal radius, radial metadiaphysis, or radial head. These injuries are all caused by high-energy trauma. Outcomes are predicated on anatomic reduction and restoration of stability to the DRUJ and PRUJ with or without ligamentous repair or reconstruction.