Volar fixed-angle plate fixation for unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly patient

PURPOSE: Increased incidence of falls and osteoporosis combine to make distal radius fractures a major cause of morbidity for the elderly patient. This report presents our experience treating distal radius fractures in the elderly population using a volar fixed-angle internal fixation plate. METHODS: We reviewed retrospectively all patients older than 75 years treated during a period of 4 years and 7 months at our centers for unstable distal radius fractures using a volar fixed-angle plate. Postoperative management included immediate finger motion, early functional use of the hand, and a wrist splint used for an average of 3 weeks. Standard radiographic fracture parameters were measured and final functional results where assessed by measuring finger motion, wrist motion, and grip strength. RESULTS: Of 26 patients that fit the inclusion criteria, we were able to evaluate 23 patients with 24 unstable distal radius fractures for an average of 63 weeks. Final volar tilt averaged 6 degrees and radial tilt 20 degrees, and radial shortening averaged less than 1 mm. The average final dorsiflexion was 58 degrees, volar flexion 55 degrees, pronation 80 degrees, and supination 76 degrees. Grip strength was 77% of the contralateral side. There were no plate failures or significant loss of reduction, although there was settling of the distal fragment in 3 patients (1-3 mm). CONCLUSIONS: The treatment of unstable distal radius fractures in the elderly patient with a volar fixed-angle plate provided stable internal fixation and allowed early function. This technique minimized morbidity in the elderly population by successfully handling osteopenic bone, allowed early return to function, provided good final results, and was associated with a low complication rate.     

陈旧性桡骨远端骨折治疗20例

目的通过对20例陈旧性桡骨远端的治疗及术后功能评价总结陈旧性桡骨远端骨折的治疗方法。方法2017年1月-2018年10月,采用单侧或双侧切开复位内固定或内外固定加外固定治疗陈旧性桡骨远端骨折20例。均为闭合性骨折,按AO分型:A2型1例,A3型2例,B1型2例,C1型12例,C3型3例。所有患者均为手法复位不满意者。病程33~150 d,平均55 d。术前掌倾角(-18.0±4.1)°,尺偏角(14.8±7.0)°,桡骨短缩(14.2±3.6)mm,腕关节屈曲活动度(30.0±12.5)°,腕关节背伸活动度(35.0±5.5)°。腕关节旋前(65.0±10.0)°,旋后(65.0±15.0)°。结果术后患者切口均一期愈合,无术后早期并发症发生。全部患者均获随访,随访时间8~24个月,平均12个月。影像学检查示所有患者骨折均顺利愈合,愈合时间为8~14周,平均10周;末次随访时桡骨远端掌倾角为(12.1±4.1)°,尺偏角为(22.5±5.5)°,桡骨短缩(2.2±1.2)mm,腕关节屈曲活动度为(65.0±12.5)°,腕关节背伸活动度为(50.0±10.5)°。腕关节旋前(85.0±5.0)°,旋后(65.0±15.0)°,较术前均显著改善。末次随访时采用DASH基线评分,平均为14分。结论陈旧性桡骨远端骨折一旦有手术指征且患者要求改善目前不良症状的均应采取内固定辅以其他治疗方式,即内固定+外固定或两种不同的内固定方式,且绝大多数需植骨。     

The extended flexor carpi radialis approach for partially healed malaligned fractures of the distal radius

PurposeThe aim of the study is to evaluate the safety and utility of the extended flexor carpi radialis (FCR) exposure and volar locking plate fixation for partially healed malaligned fractures of distal radius.Materials and methodsThirty-five patients with a partially healed malaligned fracture of the distal radius had realignment of the fracture using an extended FCR approach (release of the insertion of the brachioradialis and dorsal periosteum) and volar locked plate and screw fixation.ResultsRetrospective review an average of 20 months after the index operation patients identified an average wrist extension of 68°, flexion of 64°, pronation of 84° and supination of 85°. Radial inclination, volar tilt and ulnar variance significantly improved compared to preoperative radiographs. All fractures healed, and there were no infections, implant loosening or breakage or tendon ruptures.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that the extended FCR approach is safe and effective as a treatment method for nascent malunions of the distal radius.     

Fractures of the distal radius treated with a nonbridging external fixation technique using multiplanar k-wires

PURPOSE: Joint-bridging external fixation is a minimally invasive treatment option for distal radius fractures. Although radial length can be restored easily the anatomic reduction of articular fragments and restoration of the normal volar tilt proves to be more difficult. A method of nonbridging hybrid fixation of distal radius fractures facilitates fracture reduction and allows for free wrist movement. METHODS: Twenty-five consecutive patients with fractures of the distal radius were treated with nonbridging external fixation for 6 weeks. The stepwise surgical technique comprised a preliminary joint-bridging construction for reduction purposes, the subsequent insertion of 3 to 4 K-wires in the distal fragment, the assembling of wires to a bar nearly parallel to the fracture line, and lastly the removal of the joint-bridging part. Clinical and radiologic evaluation was performed on the first and seventh days and at 6 weeks and 2 years after surgery. RESULTS: All fractures united. Palmar tilt (> or =0 degrees ) and articular surface (articular step-off < 2 mm) were restored in all patients whereas loss of radial length occurred in 4 patients having the distal fracture fragment secured with 3 K-wires. No radial shortening was seen in fractures with 4 K-wires inserted in the distal fragment. Functional results at 2 years after surgery showed an average extension of 55 degrees and flexion of 64 degrees without significant differences between extra-articular and intra-articular fractures. There was no extensor tendinitis or pin loosening in the distal fragment; however, 3 pin track infections of proximal pins occurred. CONCLUSIONS: This surgical technique of nonbridging external fixation is a good treatment option for distal radius fractures: it permits wrist movement. We recommend the insertion of 4 K-wires in the distal fracture fragment.     

Open reduction and internal locked fixation of unstable distal ulna fractures with concomitant distal radius fracture

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results following locking plate fixation of unstable distal ulna fractures with concomitant distal radius fracture. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted to identify patients who had been treated with a locking plate for unstable displaced fractures of the distal ulna in which a concomitant ipsilateral distal radius fracture was also treated operatively. Medical records and radiographs were reviewed, and 5 patients were identified with an average age of 52 years (range, 47-61 years) and with follow-up averaging 11.6 months (range, 6-17 months). There were 2 open and 3 closed fractures. Included was 1 simple neck, 1 comminuted neck, 1 head, and 2 head and neck fractures of the distal ulna. All distal radius fracture implants were locked volar plates. RESULTS: All distal ulna and distal radius fractures united, and the average motion was: flexion 59 degrees ; extension 59 degrees ; pronation 67 degrees ; and supination 72 degrees . Average grip strength was 97% of the opposite extremity. Final ulnar variance averaged -0.4 mm (ulnar negative), radial inclination was 20 degrees , and volar tilt was 8 degrees . All distal radioulnar joints were stable. Two patients had mild, transient paresthesias of the dorsal sensory branch of the ulnar nerve, and both patients recovered completely within 3 months. There were no subsequent surgeries or hardware failures. There were no infections and no wound problems. Based upon the Sarmiento modification of the Gartland and Werley rating score, there were 4 excellent results and 1 good result. CONCLUSIONS: Locked plating of unstable distal ulna fractures, in the setting of an associated distal radius fracture, resulted in union, good to excellent alignment and motion, nearly symmetric grip strength, and minimal transient morbidity.     

可吸收螺钉治疗陈旧性腕舟状骨骨折的临床应用

目的 通过自体桡骨远端植骨、可吸收螺钉固定治疗陈旧性腕舟状骨骨折的临床应用,探讨腕舟状骨骨折治疗新方法.方法 2002年1月-2007年5月,应用自体桡骨远端松质骨植骨,聚-DL-乳酸可吸收螺钉治疗陈旧性腕舟状骨骨折18例.其中男13例,女5例;年龄17～41岁.均有手掌撑地外伤史.鼻烟窝及腕舟状骨结节区压痛,握力下降.腕关节背伸(36±2)°,掌屈(30±3)°,桡偏(8±3)°,尺偏(13±2)°结果 18例术后随访3～50个月,平均15.7个月.18例骨折全部愈合,愈合时间为术后3～8个月,平均4.5个月.16例腕关节背伸(68±2)°掌屈(65±3)°,桡偏(15±3)°,尺偏(28±5)°,腕关节活动无疼痛及不适感,无力症状消失.另2例腕关节背伸(40±8)°,掌屈(35±6)°,桡偏(8±5)°,尺偏(12±5)°,与术前相比无明显改善,日常生活中偶有疼痛,腕背伸力量减弱.未发生术后感染及内固定物断裂.结论 可吸收螺钉作为一种新的生物内固定材料治疗陈旧性腕舟状骨骨折,具有生物相容性好、促进骨折愈合、无需二次手术取出等优点.     

Radiocarpal arthrodesis for osteoarthritis following fractures of the distal radius.

To compare the radioscapholunate (RSL) arthrodesis and radiolunate (RL) arthrodesis as a treatment for radiocarpal osteoarthritis following fractures of the distal radius, nine patients, 23 to 70 years old (average 41) at the time of surgery, were assessed two to 33 years after surgery. The periods between injury and surgery ranged from four months to 30 years. RSL arthrodesis was performed in three cases and RL arthrodesis in six. Post-operative wrist pain disappeared in six and was decreased in the other three. In the RSL group, the total arc of wrist flexion and extension was reduced from 50 degrees pre-operatively to 35 degrees post-operatively. In the RL group, it was increased from 72 degrees to 76 degrees after surgery. Grip strength improved in most patients, from 7 to 18 kg in the RSL group, and from 16 to 27 kg in the RL group. On roentogenogram, three patients showed arthritic changes in the adjacent joints, but there were no symptoms in two of the three patients. We concluded that partial radiocarpal arthrodesis (preferably RL arthrodesis) is a reliable procedure for radiocarpal osteoarthritis following fractures of the distal radius.     

Surgical correction of deformities of the distal radius due to fractures in pediatric patients

Introduction The indication and treatment of malunited fractures of the distal radius in the growing skeleton differ from those for adults. The literature results are scarce. In this study we examined the results of surgical correction following fractures of the distal radius in infants.Materials and methods Seven infant patients with malaligned fractures of the distal radius that demonstrated significant functional deficit and poor prognosis for spontanous recovery were treated with surgical correction. Two of them were treated because of growth disturbance from post-traumatic closure of the distal radial physis.Results All seven osteotomies healed with acceptable radiologic alignment. After an average follow-up period of 3 years and 1 month (range 10 months to 8 years and 4 months), patients had an average range of wrist motion (ROM) of 131 deg in extension and flexion (93% of the contralateral side, 130% of presurgical situation); 65 deg in ulnar and radial deviation (94% of the contralateral side, 122% of presurgical situation); and 177 deg in pronation and supination of the forearm (97% of the contralateral side, 115% of presurgical situation). The average grip strength of 71.4 kPa was nearly equal to the other side with 72.8 kPa. The average postoperative angulation of the distal radius was 12 (range 10–17) deg, the radial inclination 20 (range 12–30) deg, and the ulnar variance was –0.6 (range –3 to +2) mm. According to the Fernandez point score system as well as the scale of Fernandez, there were five excellent results and two good results. The patients described low disability on the DASH scores, with a median of 4 (range 0–41) points.Conclusions Surgical correction for malunited fractures of the distal radius provides good and excellent radiological and functional results in the growing skeleton. It should be considered immediately if there is poor remodeling capacity and disabling loss of function.     

Trimed fixation system for displaced fractures of the distal radius

OBJECTIVE: To study the functional outcome of displaced distal radius fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation with the use of fragment-specific fixation. METHODS: Fifteen consecutive displaced distal radius fractures (5 extra-articular and 10 intra-articular) were treated using the Trimed distal radius fixation system (Trimed, Valencia, CA). Radiographic assessment and range of motion of the affected wrist were evaluated postoperatively. Functional outcomes were evaluated with use of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire and the Gartland and Werley scoring system. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 11 months. The patients initiated controlled passive and active motion exercises during the first week. The mean score on the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire was 16 points. The mean return to work was 12 weeks. The functional outcome was 80% excellent or good by the Gartland and Werley scoring system for intra-articular fractures and 80% excellent for extra-articular fractures. Range of active motion in intra-articular fractures was measured 60 degrees wrist extension, 64 degrees flexion, 65 degrees pronation, and 70 degrees supination, and for extra-articular fractures, 75 degrees extension, 70 degrees flexion, 80 degrees pronation, and 75 degrees supination. There was failure of fixation with loss of the reduction that was achieved at the time of operation in one patient. CONCLUSIONS: Fragment-specific fixation of unstable distal radius fractures using the Trimed system appears to be effective. Anatomic reduction, earlier range of motion, and improved functional results can be achieved using low-profile implants.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of intra articular and unstable fractures of the distal radius using the AO distal radius plate

This study reports the results of open reduction and internal fixation of 25 dorsally displaced distal radial fractures using a specifically designed plate for the distal radius, the AO pi plate (Synthes Ltd, Paoli, USA). Twenty-one of these fractures were complex and intra-articular (AO Type 'C'). Measurement of range of motion of the affected wrist at an average follow-up of 16 months revealed a median return of 60 degrees of wrist extension, 40 degrees of wrist flexion, 90 degrees of pronation and 90 degrees of supination. Radiographic assessment revealed restoration of normal radial length, inclination and palmar tilt in all but six cases. The final outcome, as assessed by the Gartland and Werley scale, was excellent in four cases, good in 11, and fair in ten cases. Complications were seen in five patients.     

Surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures with volar locking plates

BACKGROUND: Surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures does not always yield a satisfactory outcome. The several surgical strategies available have problems associated with them. This study was undertaken to determine if volar locking plate fixation could be useful for treating unstable distal radius fractures. METHODS: This retrospective follow-up study assessed 24 fractures in 24 patients with unstable distal radius fractures surgically treated with one of three volar locking plate systems. According to the AO classification system, 7 patients had type A3 fractures, 5 patients had type C2 fractures, and the remaining 12 patients had type C3 fractures. Radiographic measurements included volar tilt, radial inclination, and ulnar variance. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by active range of motion of the wrist and forearm, grip strength, Saito's wrist score, and the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Hand version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (JSSH version of the DASH). RESULTS: At the time of final follow-up (5 months minimum) the mean volar tilt was 8.1 degrees , radial inclination was 20 degrees, and ulnar variance was 0.4 mm. Mean wrist extension measured 61 degrees, wrist flexion 55 degrees, radial deviation 23 degrees, ulnar deviation 35 degrees, pronation 87 degrees, and supination 87 degrees. Grip strength recovered to a mean of 84% of the grip strength in the contralateral limb for patients who had injured their dominant hand and to a mean of 73% for patients who had injured their nondominant hand. Saito's wrist score calculations revealed 20 excellent and 4 good results. The mean DASH disability/symptom score was 9.9 points, and the mean DASH work module score was 8.2 points. CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrated that unstable distal radius fractures could be successfully treated with volar locking plate systems.     

Combined fractures of the distal radius and scaphoid

Combined fractures of the distal radius and scaphoid are uncommon, are usually the result of a high-energy trauma and there is no consensus regarding their optimal management. We present a retrospective study of ten patients, out of whom nine underwent internal fixation of their fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation were performed in six of the eight intraarticular fractures of the distal radius. After a mean follow-up of 40 months, eight patients reported no pain and the mean range of wrist motion was 55 degrees flexion and 71 degrees extension. Our current management protocol is outlined. Emphasis on treatment of this combined fracture should be placed on the management of the distal radius fracture. Internal fixation of both fractures, followed by early rehabilitation, optimises outcomes. Cast treatment is indicated only in patients with completely undisplaced fractures of both the radius and the scaphoid.     

Sagittal wrist motion of carpal bones following intraarticular fractures of the distal radius

Forty patients (mean age, 37 years) with intraarticular C2 and C3 Colles fractures were treated by open reduction, internal fixation and bone grafting. At a mean follow-up of 8 years radiocarpal and midcarpal motion was evaluated, the depth of the articular surface of the distal radius in the sagittal plane was measured and the presence of arthritis was noted. The fractures healed with a mean palmar tilt of 6 degrees , a mean ulnar tilt of 18 degrees and ulna variance within 1 mm of the contralateral side. The depth of the articular surface of the distal radius was 1.3 mm greater than the uninvolved side. Measurement of carpal bone angles relative to the radius in maximum flexion and extension revealed lunate extension of 23 degrees , lunate flexion of 15 degrees , capitate extension of 62 degrees , capitate flexion of 40 degrees . There was a significant correlation between articular surface depth and radiocarpal motion.     

Combined dorsal and volar plate fixation of complex fractures of the distal part of the radius

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the distal part of the radius that are associated with complex comminution of both the articular surface and the metaphysis (subgroup C3.2 according to the Comprehensive Classification of Fractures) are a challenge for surgeons using standard operative techniques. METHODS: Twenty-five patients with subgroup-C3.2 fractures that had been treated with combined dorsal and volar plate fixation were evaluated at an average of twenty-six months after the injury. Subsequent procedures included implant removal in twenty-one patients and reconstruction of a ruptured tendon in two patients. RESULTS: An average of 54 degrees of extension, 51 degrees of flexion, 79 degrees of pronation, and 74 degrees of supination were achieved. The grip strength in the involved limb was an average of 78% of that in the contralateral limb. The average radiographic measurements were 2 degrees of dorsal angulation, 21 degrees of ulnar inclination, 0.8 mm of positive ulnar variance, and 0.7 mm of articular incongruity. Seven patients had radiographic signs of arthrosis during the follow-up period. A good or excellent functional result was achieved for twenty-four patients (96%) according to the rating system of Gartland and Werley and for ten patients (40%) according to the more stringent modified system of Green and O'Brien. CONCLUSIONS: Combined dorsal and volar plate fixation of the distal part of the radius can achieve a stable, mobile wrist in patients with very complex fractures. The results are limited by the severity of the injury and may deteriorate with longer follow-up. A second operation for implant removal is common, and there is a small risk of tendon-related complications.     

桡骨远端巨细胞瘤切除自体腓骨头移植重建的远期疗效观察

目的 观察桡骨远端巨细胞瘤切除后取自体腓骨头移植重建的远期疗效.方法 对1994年3月至2004年11月31例桡骨远端巨细胞瘤患者行肿瘤大段切除,取自体腓骨上段移植重建.其中男性12例,女性19例;年龄19～48岁,平均31岁.Campanacci分期Ⅲ期24例,Ⅱ期7例.采用吻合血管的腓骨移植6例,其余25例行单纯腓骨移植.对本组患者进行临床及影像学评估,测量患者腕关节活动度、前臂旋前及旋后的活动度,测量患肢的握力.分别以MSTS评分及Mayo腕关节评分系统评价上肢及腕关节功能.结果 随访时间41～169个月,平均86.3个月.吻合血管的腓骨移植骨愈合时间为3～9个月,平均5.1个月.单纯腓骨移植患者骨愈合时间为7～15个月,平均10.3个月.1例单纯腓骨移植患者术后出现骨不愈合.1例患者术后出现肿瘤局部复发,复发率为3.2%.5例患者术后出现桡腕关节脱位.患者术后腕关节活动度为背伸(67.3±9.4)°、掌屈(31.2±5.1)°、桡偏(14.1±4.7)°、尺偏(19.4±3.9)°、前臂旋前(33.8±6.6)°、前臂旋后(15.3±4.0)°.对桡腕关节成型的28例患者进行握力测量为15.5～52.1 kg,平均33.1 kg,占健侧握力的73%.MSTS评分为23～29分,平均25.5分,Mayo腕关节功能评分40～65分,平均56分.结论 取自体腓骨上端移植重建是治疗桡骨远端巨细胞瘤的有效方法,术后患者腕关节功能恢复理想.腕关节囊的重建对于维持桡腕关节的术后稳定具有重要意义.     

跨腕关节外固定器在桡骨远端陈旧性骨折中的应用

目的 分析桡骨远端有限切开复位、跨腕关节外固定器固定治疗桡骨远端陈旧性骨折的效果.方法 2006年3月至2008年3月,应用桡骨下端切开复位、跨腕关节外固定器固定治疗桡骨远端陈旧性骨折患者16例18侧,年龄29～72岁(平均52.6岁),其中Colles骨折13例15侧,Smith骨折3例3侧.桡骨下端复位及植骨后,以外固定器协助复位及静力性固定.方果 随访时间4～30个月,平均16个月;骨折愈合时间6～12周,平均8.7周.根据Gartland与Werley腕关节评分标准评定:优11侧,良4侧,可3侧;优良率为83.3%.方论 有限切开复位、跨腕关节外固定器固定治疗桡骨陈旧性远端骨折,手术操作简单,组织损伤小,有利于术后早期功能锻炼,促进骨折愈合,是桡骨远端陈旧性骨折的一种有效治疗方法.     

外固定支架联合骨片钉在桡骨远端严重粉碎性骨折中的应用

目的研究外固定支架联合骨片钉治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折的长期疗效。方法对2010年1月-2011年12月,采用外固定支架联合骨片钉治疗的24例桡骨远端粉碎性骨折患者进行随访研究。按照AO／ASIF分型：C1型7例,c2型6例,C3型11例。随访内容：腕关节活动度（屈曲、背伸、尺偏、桡偏）,前臂旋前、旋后活动范围,握力、捏力及影像学资料（掌倾角、尺偏角、桡骨高度）。按上肢功能评定标准（Disabilities of the Arm、Shoulderand Hand,DASH）和Gartland—Werley腕关节评分标准进行综合评估。结果术后随访12-24个月,平均为15．8个月。X线片示所有骨折均愈合。按Gartland—Wefley腕关节评定,本组优11例,良9例,可4例,优良率为83．3％。结论外固定支架联合骨片钉治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折可以达到满意疗效。     

Biomechanical evaluation of wrist motor tendons after fractures of the distal radius

We conducted a biomechanical study of changes in parameters of wrist motor tendons in fractures of the distal radius in 7 cadaveric extremities. Extra-articular distal radius fractures were simulated by distal radius osteotomy and fracture angulation was maintained by external fixators. Eight positions of the distal radius fractures were studied: dorsal angulation of 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, and 40 degrees and radial angulation of 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, and 20 degrees. Dorsal and radial angulation of the fractures were measured with respect to the shaft of the radius. Excursions of 5 principal wrist motor tendons extensor carpi radialis longus, extensor carpi radialis brevis, extensor carpi ulnaris, flexor carpi radialis, and flexor carpi ulnaris were recorded simultaneously with wrist joint angulation using a computer-assisted recording system. Data were collected from intact wrists and from wrists with fractures at each of 8 positions of angulation during wrist flexion and extension and radical and ulnar deviation. Moment arm of the wrist motor tendons was derived from tendon excursion and joint angulation. The results demonstrated that excursions and moment arms of principal wrist motor tendons are significantly affected by dorsal and radial angulation of distal radius fractures. Amplitude of changes in moment arms increased as the deformities became more severe. Statistical analysis revealed that dorsal angulation of 10 degrees or more significantly affected moment arms of all the prime wrist motors. Dorsal angulation of 30 degrees or 40 degrees changed the moment arms greatly. Radial angulation of 5 degrees did not affect moment arms of the tendons and angulation over 10 degrees had a statistically significant effect on the tendons. We conclude that deformities of distal radius fractures have a significant influence on the biomechanics of the wrist motors.     

Sliding osteotomy for deformity correction following malunion of volarly displaced distal radial fractures

OBJECTIVE: To determine the outcome after a sliding osteotomy for deformity correction following malunion of volarly displaced distal radius fractures. DESIGN: Retrospective review of a consecutive patient series. SETTING: A university-affiliated, tertiary-care center. PATIENTS/INTERVENTION: Ten patients with symptomatic distal radius malunion following a volarly displaced distal radial fracture (Smith's fracture) were treated with an oblique sliding osteotomy and plate fixation, through a volar approach, without using an iliac crest bone graft. Five men and five women with an average age of 41.9 years were followed for an average of 2.7 years postoperatively. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Range of motion, grip strength, Fernandez wrist score, radiographic parameters. RESULTS: At latest follow-up, wrist extension improved from an average of 37 degrees preoperatively to 70 degrees postoperatively (P = 0.002), wrist flexion improved from an average of 40 degrees to 65 degrees (P = 0.012), and supination improved from an average of 31 degrees to 68 degrees (P = 0.002). Postoperative radiographs revealed an average deformity correction of 10.6 degrees of volar tilt, 7.7 degrees of radial inclination, 5.8 mm of ulnar variance, and 10.4 mm of volar translation. Using the Fernandez point score (0-20) system, the average overall score improved from 10.5 preoperatively to 17.6 postoperatively (P = 0.0001). Functional outcome was rated as excellent or good in 9 of 10 patients and fair in 1 patient (who experienced residual problems due to persistent ulnar-sided pain). There were two reoperations (one hardware removal, one distal ulnar hemiresection). CONCLUSIONS: This method reliably restores distal radial anatomy, decreases pain, and improves supination without requiring iliac crest bone grafting.