FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF INTRA-ARTICULAR FRACTURE DISTAL END OF RADIUS TREATED WITH DORSAL BRIDGE PLATE – A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Introduction: Distal radius fractures pose a signicant threat to the intricate mechanics of the human hand, often regarded as the epitome of dexterity and nesse. Among all fractures, none carry a greater potential to severely impair hand function. This is primarily due to the fact that the distal radius represents a critical juncture where precious soft tissues envelop the metaphysis of the bone. Dorsal bridge plating emerges as a highly valuable treatment option for distal end radius fractures, particularly those marked by complex articular and extraarticular fragmentation, where small, delicate fragments would provide inadequate stability if treated solely with a locking volar plate. The use of a distraction plate not only facilitates prolonged immobilization spanning the wrist joint without compromising functional outcomes but also mitigates the risks associated with pin loosening and pin infection commonly encountered with external xation methods. Objectives: The study is a prospective study of functional outcome of intra articular distal end radius fracture treated with dorsal bridge plate technique. Methods: All the cases of intra articular distal end radius fracture treated with dorsal bridge plate technique during the time period of one year will be taken for study. Patients were followed up till 6 months and assessed using Gartland &Werley demerit scoring system. Results: Of the 20 patients enrolled in the study after informed consent, all fractures united .The average exion and extension was found to be 62 degrees and 62.8 degrees, pronation and supination was 79 degrees and 79 degrees, radial and ulna deviation was 20 degrees and 25 degrees respectively. According to Gartland –Werley scoring system twelve patients had an excellent result, two had a good result, two had a fair result and two had poor results. One patient had tendon rupture and no case of post surgical site pain and no cases of infection, tendonitis. Conclusion: Functional outcomes following dorsal bridge plate xation for distal radius fractures were similar to those published in literatures. Our ndings suggest that this method is safe with minimal complications, and similar recovery to other methods of distal radius xation is possible with rehabilitation.