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Open reduction and internal fixation of the distal radius

Publication ,  Journal Article
Ruch, DS; Ginn, TA
Published in: Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics
January 1, 2003

Fractures of the distal radius are one of the most common problems treated by orthopaedic surgeons. The management of unstable fractures is now almost routinely surgical, and multiple techniques have been developed to accomplish this including pins and plaster, external fixation, and internal fixation. Recent studies and classification systems have stressed the importance of identification of specific fracture fragments. Given that the goal of operative management of the fracture is an anatomic reduction and stable fixation, open reduction and internal fixation has been utilized recently to a greater degree. This allows direct reduction of the fracture with a stable construct. Advantages over external fixation or pins and plaster include a more anatomic reduction, establishment of early range of motion, and avoidance of complications associated with external pins. A dorsal or volar approach can be employed depending on fracture pattern and associated bony or soft tissue injuries. A variety of plating systems are now available, many of which are contoured specifically for the distal radius. Results of open reduction and internal fixation for distal radius fractures have generally shown greater than 80% good results. Complications can also occur including tenosynovitis, tendon rupture, and carnal tunnel syndrome. © 2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Duke Scholars

Published In

Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics

DOI

ISSN

1048-6666

Publication Date

January 1, 2003

Volume

13

Issue

2

Start / End Page

138 / 143

Related Subject Headings

  • Orthopedics
  • 1103 Clinical Sciences
 

Citation

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ICMJE
MLA
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Ruch, D. S., & Ginn, T. A. (2003). Open reduction and internal fixation of the distal radius. Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics, 13(2), 138–143. https://doi.org/10.1053/otor.2003.0165
Ruch, D. S., and T. A. Ginn. “Open reduction and internal fixation of the distal radius.” Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics 13, no. 2 (January 1, 2003): 138–43. https://doi.org/10.1053/otor.2003.0165.
Ruch DS, Ginn TA. Open reduction and internal fixation of the distal radius. Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics. 2003 Jan 1;13(2):138–43.
Ruch, D. S., and T. A. Ginn. “Open reduction and internal fixation of the distal radius.” Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics, vol. 13, no. 2, Jan. 2003, pp. 138–43. Scopus, doi:10.1053/otor.2003.0165.
Ruch DS, Ginn TA. Open reduction and internal fixation of the distal radius. Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics. 2003 Jan 1;13(2):138–143.
Journal cover image

Published In

Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics

DOI

ISSN

1048-6666

Publication Date

January 1, 2003

Volume

13

Issue

2

Start / End Page

138 / 143

Related Subject Headings

  • Orthopedics
  • 1103 Clinical Sciences