Technique Spotlight

Multiple fixation strategies are available for the treatment of fractures of the distal radius. The appropriate fixation construct should be determined based on multiple factors including fracture pattern, associated injuries, and patient factors such as age, bone quality, comorbidities, and baseline functional status. The use of a dorsal bridge plate for the treatment of distal radius fractures has proven to be a versatile fixation construct useful in multiple treatment paradigms. The dorsal bridge plate functions as an internal external fixator with a functional bone-to-bar distance of 0. This construct allows for rigid spanning fixation to be applied in a relatively minimally invasive fashion via two or three small dorsal incisions. The use of a dorsal bridge plate allows treating surgeons to achieve excellent fixation and maintain reduction over the course of fracture healing, while providing an improved biomechanical profile and a lower rate of complications than those associated with wrist-spanning external fixators.

Duke Scholars

Author David Simms Ruch Orthopaedic Surgery