Purpose of review: To provide an overview of emerging fixation constructs and materials used in the operative management of distal radius fractures.
Recent findings: The indications, advantages, and disadvantages of relatively new implants and devices used to treat distal radius fractures are discussed. These include the intramedullary nail, intramedullary cage, radiolucent volar locking plate, distal radius hemiarthroplasty, and bone graft substitutes. The spectrum of distal radius fracture patterns may make it impossible to depend on a single device for fixation, and surgeons managing distal radius fractures should be adept at using various surgical approaches, techniques, and hardware systems. Additional studies demonstrating the cost-effectiveness, biomechanical properties, and clinical outcomes will be useful in determining the utility of the described techniques.
Keywords: Bone graft; Distal radius fracture; Internal fixation.