Role of locking compression plate for Distal Radius Fractures in Postmenopausal Women

INTRODUCTION: One of the most common injuries in postmenopausal and older women is fracture of the distal radius. Osteoporosis is the major underlying cause . In majority of cases, satisfactory reduction by cast will redisplace and reangle in immobilizing cast resulting in a poor functional outcome. The present study was undertaken to assess the functional outcome of operative management of distal radial fractures in postmenopausal women by volar locking compression plate and assessing the functional outcome using modified mayo wrist scoring system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was a prospective study with a sample size of 15 in numbers, conducted in the department of orthopaedics, Coimbatore medical college and hospital during the period 2011-2013. RESULTS: In our series, we had 46.6% excellent, 39.9% good, 13.3%, fair and no poor results. Patients, who obtained excellent results, had normal regular activities or pain. Range of motion was within the normal functional range. Their Radial length, volar tilt and articular step-off were within acceptable limits. Patients with good results had minimal residual deformities, pain and slight limitation. Rest of their findings was within acceptable parameters. Patients with fair results, along with residual deformity, pain and limitation also had pain in the distal radio-ulnar joint and minimal complications. CONCLUSION: Its concluded that volar locking plate is a safe and effective treatment for undisplaced and displaced unstable fractures of distal end of radius in postmenopausal women