Prospective study of functional outcome of Distal Radius Fracture managed by Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis

AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate functional outcome of distal radius fractures treated by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis, in the Department of Orthopaedics, Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital, over a period of two years from August 2013 to August 2015. METHODS AND MATERIALS: This is a prospective study of 23 cases of distal radius fractures treated with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis. The period of study and follow up extends from August 2013 to August 2015. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Age above 20 years, closed distal radius fractures, extra articular and minimally comminuted intra articular fractures. EXCLUSION CRITERIA: Age less than 20 years, compound fractures, severely comminuted intra articular fractures and severe osteoporosis. Outcome evaluated with Mayo wrist score. DISCUSSION: The advantages of MIPO for distal radius are preservation the soft tissue attachments and aids in good union, attrition of flexor tendons avoided, preservation of blood supply, better range of movements, better cosmetic outcome and decrease in hospital stay. CONCLUSION: The results of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis are comparable to conventional plating technique. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis can be utilised for extra articular distal radius fracture and with minimal articular involvement. It avoids extensive soft tissue dissection, provides rigid fixation, allows early mobilisation, provides better functional and cosmetic outcome and decreases the duration of hospital stay