Abstract
Operative treatment using plate fixation is an important adjunct in the treatment
of distal radius fractures, although the evidence for its superiority over other modalities
remains limited. We propose a new concept for fractures of the distal radius, based
on the three-column model of the distal radius, and on the expanding knowledge about
the different fracture patterns obtained by evaluation of the distal radius by computed
tomographic (CT) scan. All fracture types can be characterized by subdividing the
wrist joint into four corners, each with its own characteristics in terms of mobility,
stability, and transfer of forces in the intact distal radius. Recognition of the
specific fracture types based on this four-corner concept enables a tailored approach
to treatment.
Keywords
distal radius fractures - intra-articular fractures
