Purpose of the study: Treatment of distal fractures of the radius with posterior displacement remains a controversial issue. In the past, the anterior approach used for osteosynthesis failed to enable sustained reduction. With the recent development of locked plating systems, it might be useful to revisit this technique.

Material and methods: Between November 2001 and April 2003, 23 patients (15 females, 8 males), mean age 55 years (range 17–75 years) were treated with an LCP 3.5 T plate (Mathys Medical SA, Bettlach, Switzerland). The anterior Henry approach was used. There were 16 extra-articular fractrures and seven with an associated intra-articular fracture line. Radiographic analysis searched for secondary displacement and was coupled with clinical examination with force measurement (DASH). The Herzberg score used for the SOFCOT 1999 symposium was noted.

Results: Eighteen patients were reviewed with mean follow-up of 16 months. Radiologically, all fractures had healed at twelve months, with only one case of secondary loss of reduction. According to the SOFCOT symposium criteria, bone healing was anatomic for 13 cases and with moderate misalignment for five. Wrist force (Jamar) on the operated side was 95% of the opposite side. The mean DASH was 22.7. The Herzberg outcome was: excellent (n=9), good (n=6), fair (n=3), and poor (n=0). Complications were: reflex dystrophy (n=4), carpal tunnel syndrome (n=1), cheloid scar (n=1), irritation of the common extensor of the fingers (n=1).

Discussion: Secondary displacement after fracture of a posteriorly displaced fracture of the distal radius frequently lead to misalignment which is often poorly tolerated. The LCP system maintains a stable reduction long enough to reduce the rate of secondary displacement.

Conclusion: A comparative study of the commonly applied techniques (pinning) would be necessary to define the appropriate indications for this more costly technique.

Introduction: Previously, we noticed loss of initial reduction with conventional palmar plate osteosynthesis for dorsally displaced distal radius fractures. Locking Compression T plate may provide more stable fixation and we report our early experience.

Materials and methods: Between November 2002 and April 2003, 23 patients (15 women, 8 men), mean age 55, (17–80) underwent open reduction and internal fixation using 3.5 mm locking compression oblique T plate (SYNTHES) through a Henry ‘s approach and a 2 weeks plaster cast immobilisation. All fractures were dorsally displaced. According to AO classification there were 15 A3 and 8 C1 and C2 fracture. 18 patients could be reviewed with a mean follow up of 16 months (6 to 30) Pre operatively, radial inclination was 11.7 ° (0–20), dorsal angulation 25.9 ° (8–48) and ulnar variance:4 mm (0–10)

Results: Post-operatively, radial inclination was 23,2. ulnar variance: 1,2 mm and ventral angulation 4,6 °. At one year follow-up, there was no loss of post-operative reduction. According to SOFCOT ‘s criteria, there were 13 anatomical results and 5 moderate malunion. According to Green and O ‘Brien’s criteria, there were 9 excellent, 6 good, 3 fair and no poor results. Mean DASH score was 22.8 (5.8 – 62.5). Strengh and pinch were respectively 95 % and 91 % when compared with the opposite side. There were 6 complications concerning 4 reflex sympathetic dystrophy, one carpal tunnel syndrome and one hypertrophic scar.

Discussion: In our experience, classic palmar plate fixation showed inability for maintaining reduction during time. Locking Compression 3,5 T plate by a palmar approach which is a demanding technique, avoids loss of post-operative recution

Conclusion Locking Compression 3.5 T Plate by palmar approach is an effective treatment for dorsally displaced distal radius fracture but the plate itself and ancillary tools have to be improved to reduce operatively difficulty.