External Fixator for Maintaining Reduction Before Volar Plating: A Simple Treatment Method for Association of Osteosynthesis Type C3 Distal Radius Fracture

Abstract

Volar plating for Association of Osteosynthesis type C3 distal radius fractures involves more time and more radiation exposure because it is extremely difficult to simultaneously maintain the reduction and restore the congruity of the articular surface. The authors present a technique of maintaining the acceptable reduction by using an external fixator followed by open volar plating for restoring articular congruity. A consecutive series of 96 Association of Osteosynthesis type C3 distal radius fractures treated with the technique were retrospectively reviewed between January 2004 and December 2012. The technique makes surgery simpler and more effective, and reduces radiation exposure.