Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
ULUSAL TRAVMA VE ACIL CERRAHI DERGISI-TURKISH JOURNAL OF TRAUMA & EMERGENCY SURGERY, cilt.24, sa.3, ss.255-262, 2018 (SCI-Expanded)
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the functional and radiological outcomes of K-wire-supported bridging external fixation (KW-EF) and volar locking plate (VLP) in the treatment of comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures. METHODS: Patients treated for complex intra-articular distal radius fractures between February 2010 and April 2013 were retrospectively investigated. A total of 114 patients (42 females and 72 males) with a mean age of 44.9 +/- 15.4 (range: 18-86) years were evaluated. Wrist ranges of motion were measured using a universal goniometer, and hand grip strength was determined using hand dynamometers. The results were evaluated with Gartland-Werley score. QuickDASH questionnaire was administered in subjective functional assessment. Radiological evaluations were performed, with wrist radiographs obtained on the 3rd month and 2nd year. RESULTS: Wrist flexion, extension, pronation, and supination were all significantly better in the VLP group than in the KW-EF group at last control (p=0.001). Gartland-Werley, QuickDASH, and Visual Analog Scale were significantly better in the VLP than group than in the KW-EF group (p=0.003, p=0.003, and p=0.001, respectively). At the last follow-up, loss of grip strength compared with that on the uninjured side was 4% in the VLP group and 7% in the KW-EF group. CONCLUSION: VLP is a safe method with low complication rates. It is superior to KW-EF as it facilitates early return to daily activities and shows better functional and radiological outcomes in the 2nd year of treatment.