KK Wong, KW Chan, TK Kwok, KH Mak
Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Kwong Wah Hospital, Hong Kong

Purpose. To evaluate the functional and radiological results of treating unstable fractures of the dorsal distal radius with a volar locking plate.

Methods. Dorsally displaced distal radial fractures in 30 patients (11 men and 19 women; mean age, 58.6 years) were fixed by volar locking compression plate and followed up for a minimum of one year.

Results. At final functional assessment, 24 patients achieved excellent and 5 achieved good outcomes, with one patient exhibiting fair results. Radiological scores demonstrated 22 excellent and 8 good outcomes. No nonunion or infection occurred.

Conclusion. Volar locking compression plating is a safe and effective treatment for unstable fractures of the dorsal distal radius.