Abstract
Background Distal radius fracture is one of the most common injuries. Poor functional result
with restricted wrist motion can be developed when there is intra-articular fibrous
tissue development arising from articular step-off and gapping.
Objectives The aim of this study is to compare the functional and radiological outcome between
arthroscopic-assisted reduction and fluoroscopic reduction in treating unstable intra-articular
distal radius fracture.
Methods We retrospectively analyzed 12 patients with intraarticular AO type C distal radius
fracture treated with arthroscopic-assisted fracture reduction and internal fixation
and compared them with another group of 12 patients in which fracture reduction is
assessed by fluoroscopy alone (15 males and 9 females, mean age 57.3, range 27–73).
The two cohorts were analyzed for differences in radiological parameters including
articular stepping and gapping, palmar tilt, radial inclination, ulnar variance as
well as functional outcome in range of motion, grip strength, modified mayo wrist
score, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score at an average
of 12.5 months (range 5–26) after surgery.
Results Arthroscopic-assisted fracture reduction group has statistically better restoration
of articular stepping and gapping, volar tilt and ulnar variance. Range of motion,
grip strength, modified mayo wrist score and Quick DASH score also had statistically
significant improvement in arthroscopic group.
Conclusion Our study showed arthroscopic-assisted technique can precisely restore radiological
parameters in highly comminuted distal radius fracture with good functional outcome.
Also, associated intra-articular soft tissue injury can be detected and treated simultaneously.
Level of Evidence This is a level III, retrospective cohort study.
Keywords
distal radius fracture - wrist arthroscopy - arthroscopic assisted reduction - concomitant
injuries
