Arthroscopic-Assisted Reduction of Intra-articular Distal Radius Fracture

Abstract

Wrist arthroscopy is an efficient adjunct for intra-articular distal radius fracture fixation. However, performing wrist arthroscopy during the plate fixation is troublesome with the vertical traction applied and released. To facilitate the procedure, the authors developed a surgical technique, plate presetting arthroscopic reduction technique (PART), using a palmar locking plate. Since July 2005, they have performed PART for 248 intra-articular distal radius fractures with good and excellent results. Arthroscopic-assisted reduction of intra-articular fragments is superior to fluoroscopic assisted. PART also allows detection of intra-articular migration of fracture fragments, screw protrusion, and associated soft tissue injuries.

Keywords: Arthroscopy; Articular step-off; Distal radius fracture; Intra-articular fracture; Wrist.