Keywords
distal radius fracture - volar locking plate - complications - outcome - radiological
Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are one of the most common upper extremity fractures
occurring in adults.[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
[5]
[6]
[7] In the past, DRFs were treated conservatively by closed reduction and immobilization
or K-wires. However, secondary dislocations occurred with these procedures, requiring
corrective and even salvage procedures.[8]
[9]
[10] After the introduction of volar angular stable locking plates in the 2000s and the
excellent reported clinical outcomes, the incidence of surgically treated DRF increased
significantly. The first volar plates were not angle stable and have evolved from
monoaxial to polyaxial angle stable screws. Thus, in the majority of cases, anatomic
reconstruction can be achieved while simultaneously stabilizing a dorsally displaced
DRF from volar without the increased risk of extensor tendon irritation.[11]
[12]
[13]
[14]
[15] Similarly, volar locking plate stabilization allows early active wrist rehabilitation
without immobilization.[16]
[17]
[18] However, even the use of angle-stable plate fixation does not preclude secondary
loss of reduction and possible resulting malunion, especially in cases with poor bone
quality.[9]
[14]
[19]
For this reason, specific plate designs have been developed to increase stability
and provide fixation options for each fracture type. Arthroscopically assisted techniques
expanded the range of techniques, especially for the reduction of complex intra-articular
fractures.[20]
[21]
[22]
[23]
With this progressive development, the optimal selection of the different treatment
options became difficult, and an advanced biomechanical understanding of the different
fracture types is necessary.[24]
The main objective of this work is to combine and modify current pathobiomechanical
oriented classifications with an improved understanding of the “key fragments” to
subsequently offer a treatment concept for stabilizing these critical fragments by
specific types of internal fixation. In this context, fragment-specific fracture treatment
includes analysis of radiographs (direction of dislocation), computed tomography (CT)
scans (definition of the key fragment and fracture lines), and three-dimensional (3D)
reconstructions/models (better fracture understanding and for teaching purposes).
This manuscript focuses specifically on volar fractures and key fragments of the distal
radius and is only one part of the overall classification, which also describes other
key fragments and nonkey fracture types. However, there are cases in which the other
aspects must be considered. These remaining key fragments and nonkey type fragments
are described in detail by Hintringer et al[24].
Classification of Distal Radius Fractures
Classification of Distal Radius Fractures
Classifications of DRF have historically been based on plain radiographs only, tend
to be descriptive with no conclusions for treatment. None of the existing classifications
have proven to be usefully in helping the treating hand surgeon in decision-making
for the best method of treatment. Equally, they failed due to a poor reproducibility
and reliability, tend to be overcomplex, and unable to classify the full spectrum
of impairment and severity. As a result, they do not provide useful clinical insights.
Furthermore, they do not take into account the mechanisms of injury and pathobiomechanics.[24]
[25]
The basic indications for surgery in DRF have also not been conclusively established
to date. But particularly in young patients, most surgeons consider dorsal angulation
>15 degrees, radial shortening >3 mm or intra-articular step-off >2 mm as indications
for surgery.[26] In 1989, Lafontaine et al[27] identified five predictors of instability: dorsal angulation >20 degrees at presentation,
dorsal comminution, intra-articular fracture, associated ulnar fracture, and age over
60 years. If three of these five predictors are present, the fracture is considered
as potentially unstable and surgery is advised. However, recently Walenkamp et al[28] pooled the published data and found only a dorsal comminuted fracture, women and
age over 60 years as significant risk factors for secondary loss of reduction. The
matter is further complicated by the fact that there is strong evidence that patients
over 60 years of age may not even benefit clinically from surgical treatment.[26]
[29]
[30]
Modern classifications include analyses of CT scans and 3D reconstructions, and they
provide new insights, especially in intra-articular fractures.[31] Pechlaner[32] presented basic principles of fracture localization and formation on freshly frozen
cadaveric-produced fractures. He showed that volar dislocated fractures can occur
even in a dorsally extended wrist, depending on the point of impact. Similarly, the
importance of ligament attachment points in dislocated fractures were classified as
a function of the applied forces.
Mandziak et al[33] showed the correlation between fracture lines and insertion points of ligaments
on the volar and dorsal aspect of the radius. Bain described the three fragments (volar
ulnar corner, dorsal ulnar corner, and radial styloid) that make up the majority of
the two-part intra-articular DRFs.[34] Each fragment has a ligament attached and coined the term “osteoligamentous unit,”
as each fragment includes its associated ligament. Brink used this concept, and added
the distal ulnar, and referred to these as the four key fragments (volar, dorsal,
radial, and ulnar key fragments).[35] In addition, we consider there to be a further key fragment, the central key fragment,
which consists of only the central aspect of the articular surface.[24] It has no ligament attachments and therefore is not an osteoligamentous unit, but
it is an important key fragment in the assessment and management of DRF.
Pathobiomechanics of Distal Radius Fractures
Pathobiomechanics of Distal Radius Fractures
Basic requirements for regular motion of the carpus are (1) uninjured bonestock of
the radius and ulna; (2) intact intrinsic ligaments connecting the bones of the proximal
carpal row, forming a geometrically variable condyle relative to the immobile distal
radius and distal carpal row; and (3) intact extrinsic ligaments coordinating the
proximal row with radius and ulna against the distal carpal row, which acts like a
rigid monolith ([Fig. 1]).[36]
Fig. 1 Prerequisite for physiological biomechanics is an intact bone stock. (A) The first carpal row acts as an intermediate segment between the two other fixed
partners (distal radius and distal carpal row) and is connected with short intrinsic
ligaments. (B) Volar extrinsic ligaments: long extrinsic ligaments coordinate movement between
the carpal rows and hold the lunate in position in the middle of the first row with
a strong attachment. (C) Dorsal extrinsic ligaments coordinate movement on the dorsal side and help control
the first carpal row. Image courtesy: Hintringer et al.[24]
The dorsal and volar extrinsic ligaments counteract the physiological tendency of
the carpus to slide ulnarly and volarly along the radial and volar inclination of
the distal radius ([Fig. 2A]). These extrinsic ligaments consist on the dorsal side of the wrist in the so-called
dorsal “V-ligaments” and volarly in the proximal and distal “V-ligaments.” Together
they hold the carpus in position ([Fig. 1A]) and form a sling around the wrist to provide resistance against the occurring forces
([Fig. 2B]). The rather strong volar ligaments support the proximal row like a belly tie and
act against forces to the volar and ulnar side like a traction band.[34]
Fig. 2 Anatomical considerations. (A) The carpus tends to slide radially and ulnarly along the slope of the articular
surface of the radius. (B) The extrinsic ligaments act dorsally and volarly and form together a sling against
the displacing forces. Image courtesy: Hintringer et al.[24]
In event of a fall on the extended wrist, either rupture of the ligaments, or if they
remain intact, compression fracture of the dorsal or volar aspect of the distal radius
can occur ([Fig. 3A–C]).[35] In addition, both radial and ulnar fractures can occur depending on the direction
of the acting forces ([Fig. 4A]). Direction of the acting forces in relation to the position of the wrist determines
the location of the resulting fractures (dorsal, volar radial, and ulnar) in the distal
radius ([Fig. 4B]). The interaction of these parameters results in specific fracture types.
Fig. 3 Distal radius fracture origin. (A, B) Dorsal forces on the wrist produce dorsal compression fractures due to the leverage
created by the volar extrinsic ligaments. The volar ligaments act as tension bands
and produce additional volar avulsions. (C) If a compression component is added, intra-articular fractures with volar dorsal
or radial key fragments occur. Image courtesy: Hintringer et al.[24]
Fig. 4 Origin of the key fragments. (A) Depending on the force applied, radial-sided, or ulnar-sided fractures occur. In
the first image, the applied force is transmitted via the capitate, scaphoid, and
finally radial styloid, resulting in a radial-sided fracture. The second image shows
a transmission of the applied force trough the capitate, lunate, and sigmoid notch,
resulting in an ulnar-sided fracture. (B) A dorsally extended wrist does not necessarily result in a dorsally dislocated fracture.
Depending on the direction of the applied force, dorsal or volar fractures may occur.
Image courtesy: Hintringer et al.[24]
The question arises whether the fracture lines have a distinct pattern or whether
the fracture lines are random. Pathobiomechanical studies suggest that they typically
occur between the attachments of the extrinsic ligaments on the distal radius ([Fig. 5A, B]). Particularly, in two fragment fractures, the lines occur in the area between the
ligamentous insertion zones.[33]
[37]
Fig. 5 Partial intra-articular fractures. (A) Six different patterns can be observed in partial intra-articular fractures. At
least one corner remains intact and in continuity with the shaft. (B) The origins of the extrinsic ligaments are shown, which appear to reinforce the
bone. Image courtesy: Hintringer et al.[24]
Intra-articular fractures show six different fracture patterns and at least one part
of the articular surface remains in union with the shaft ([Fig. 5A, B]). Biomechanically, these fragments form an osteoligamentous unit tending to dislocate
in predefined directions depending on the region of the origin ligaments.
Volar Key Type Fractures
Volar Lunate Facet Fragment
Volar key fragments are induced by volar acting forces to the distal radius and result
in fractures of the volar articular surface ([Fig. 6A–E]). This may result in volar depression or volar cortex fractures. The occurring volar
articular fractures can be either small or large fragments ([Fig. 6A]). Type of the developed fracture largely depends on the position of the dorsally
extended wrist during the fall. They may be isolated fractures of the ulnar-volar
rim as well as of the entire volar rim of the radius.[32]
Fig. 6 Volar key fragment. (A) The volar-ulnar osteoligament unit can be either a large or a smaller rim fragment.
It may be either ulnar or radial and also involve the entire volar radial rim. Dislocation
is in volar direction, although the dorsal ligaments may remain intact. (B) Volar-ulnar fragment: origin of the important radioulnar and ulnocarpal ligaments.
(C) The osteoligament unit dislocates volary. (D) In extreme cases, a complete radioulnar fragment is possible. (E) The small volar rim fragment is barely visible on the plain X-rays. It is best identified
on the axial CT scans. The lateral images also show the degree of volar displacement
of the entire carpus. Image courtesy: Hintringer et al.[24]
The volar V-ligaments reinforce the proximal row against dislocation. If the fracture
includes the ligamentous insertion, the entire carpus tends to dislocate to the volar
side along with this as an osteoligamentous unit. As the ulnocarpal and volar radioulnar
ligaments are the main stabilizers of the distal radioulnar and ulnocarpal joints,
fractures of the volar ulnar rim (origin of these ligaments) result in destabilization
of the radiocarpal, and sometimes of the radioulnar joint.
Volar Rim Fragment
Volar rim fractures with smaller fragments (called rim fragments) are often missed
on plain X-rays and tend to show a higher degree of instability ([Fig. 7A–G]).[4]
[19] In addition to these bony injuries, accessory ligament lesions are possible. Volar
rim fragments have different sizes and shapes ([Fig. 8A–C]). The formation of the fragments depends on the type of applied force (axial and/or
volar) and volar edge blocks are formed, which can extend far into the socket.
Fig. 7 Volar rim fractures. (A) Volar rim fragments over the entire width of the carpus with ligamentous attachments
forming osteoligamentous units. (B) Rotatory dislocation of the carpus with isolated ulnar rim fragment. (C–D) Symmetrical volar dislocation of the carpus in a complete radio-ulnar shear fracture
simulation of the volar ligamentous apparatus on the three-dimensional model. (E) Formation of the volar rim fragment during tangential acting force to the wrist
joint. (F) Tear-out of the volar rim fragment with tangentially applied force to the extensor
side and simultaneous shearing of a dorsal rim fragment. (G) Mechanism of inverting the volar rim fragment by 180 degrees during reduction.
Fig. 8 Manifestations of volar key fragments. (A) Different sizes from volar key fragments, axial computed tomography scan. (B) Different sizes of volar fracture fragments cause volar luxation fractures because
they have one thing in common: these fragments form osteoligamentous units with the
carpus, which are displaced together in volar direction. (C) Dorsal and volar rim fragments 180 degrees rotated after dorsal dislocation of the
carpus are indicators for multidirectional instability.
The more tangentially the force is applied, the smaller become the fragments (shear
fragments). They may be located exclusively volar ulnar ([Fig. 7B]) or include the entire width of the volar radius rim ([Fig. 7C, D]). Not only volar forces lead to volar edge fragments, but also dorsally dislocated
fractures can cause ligamentous avulsion fragments ([7E–G]). These fragments are often dislocated dorsally, twisted during the subsequent reduction,
and often come to lie 180 degrees inverted volar ([Fig. 9]).
Fig. 9 Sequence of fragment displacement with dorsal dislocation. Subsequent reduction and
inversion of the volar marginal fragment.
The position and shape of these fragments can be used to draw conclusions about the
originating mechanism and the residual instability. It is also decisive whether the
force is applied symmetrically from dorsal to volar or a certain rotational moment
is present. In the former case, complete radioulnar edge fragments are formed. In
the second case (rotational moment), purely ulnar edge fragments emerge. If the force
is directed to the volar and rotational radially, purely radial shear fragments can
also occur.
Radioulnar fragments dislocate symmetrically to the volar side, that is, scaphoid,
lunate and triquetrum are displaced as a whole osteoligamentous block to the volar
side, while in the case of a purely ulnar edge fragment the carpus is displaced rotationally
on the ulnar-volar side. The scaphoid remains in the correct position on the radial
side. Complete radioulnar edge fragments are more unstable than purely ulnar edge
fragments.
The diagnosis of these volar edge fragments is best made on axial CT images, while
they are often hidden on plain X-rays.
Process of Classification of Fractures of the Distal Radius
Process of Classification of Fractures of the Distal Radius
An absolute prerequisite for proper fracture classification is a plain radiograph
in two planes and CT scan of the wrist. In addition, 3D reconstructions may be helpful
in cases of intra-articular fractures. 3D printing of fractures appears to be a valuable
teaching tool and may also add in plate fitting on a model. However, 3D reconstructions
are mandatory for reconstructive osteotomies.
Plain radiographs provide an overview of the fracture, including the main direction
of dislocation. CT scans allow a more detailed analysis of the articular surface of
the fracture. However, in extra-articular fractures a CT scan is not mandatory in
all cases. First, the axial image should be analyzed because only in this plane the
location of the fragments in the sigmoid notch can be adequately assessed. Together
with the other two planes, the entire 3D extent of the fracture can be recognized.
The 3D imaging can be accompanied by 3D reconstructions.
Strategies for Selecting the Right Access and Implant Type
Strategies for Selecting the Right Access and Implant Type
With the multitude of implants available on the market, it seems critical to consider
which plate type is the best for stabilization, a particular fracture type from an
economic standpoint. Not every fracture type necessarily requires the most expensive
treatment.[14]
[38]
The first step is to determine the optimal approach and assess the necessary follow-up
to prevent secondary dislocation of the carpus and fracture. This seems to be more
important than perfect reduction.[26]
[39] Most modern plates are polyaxially angular stable and can stabilize the fracture
with two rows of screws. Nevertheless, there are important aspects in the various
forms of plates that are not commonly known.
The radially longer and more distal located plates, which have the advantage of grasping
very radial and distal fragments, do not take into account the watershed concept.
In contrast, the so-called watershed plates are ulnar longer and must be positioned
proximal to the watershed line. They do not compromise the flexor tendons but offer
limited ability to grasp and stabilize very distal fractures of the distal radius.[8]
[40]
[41] For volar-ulnar fragments, special plates are available that are designed to hold
very distal ulnar fragments.[42] Cannulated self-tapping screws are becoming increasingly popular for the treatment
of single fragments, especially in minimally invasive arthroscopically assisted methods.
Treatment Options for Different Volar Key Type Fractures
Treatment Options for Different Volar Key Type Fractures
After classification of the fractures, recognition of the decisive key-type fragment
represents the basic decision for optimal treatment. Volar plates should be used to
treat volar key type fractures. Distinctions must be made between the various possible
fragment locations and configurations: is it ulnar only, or is it a marginal fragment,
or does it extend over the entire volar margin of the distal radius? ([Fig. 10A])
Fig. 10 Different ulnar orientated volar plates for the distal radius. (A) Various volar key fragments: (1) narrow rim fragment, (2) fragment extending just
into the metaphysis, (3) ulnar volar block fragment, and (4) additional radial volar
fragment. (B) Hooke plate grasps small volar rim fragment. (C) Special plate for ulnar volar larger rim fragments. (D) Watershed plates for radio-ulnar edge fragments, where the Y-shaped plate has a
gap for the flexor pollicis longus tendon. Thus, the plate can be mounted more distally
than other plates without compromising the Soong concept.[41]
[43] (E) If a small rim fragment is present in addition to a large volar metaphyseal fragment,
hook plates can be used in combination with a watershed plate.
Volar Lunate Facet Fragment
The so-called watershed plates offer the best fixation method for ulnar volar fragments
because they can be mounted very far ulnar distally ([Fig. 11A, B]). At the same time, they do not compromise the flexor tendons on the radial side
and are specially designed for stabilization of the lunate facet. These very narrow
plates minimize contact with the flexor tendons but can only be used for limited indications.
Fig. 11 Treatment options for volar lunate facet fragments. (A) Schematic illustration of a volar lunate facet fragment. Computed tomography scans
show a volar dislocation of the carpus with a big fragment of the fossa lunata. (B) The watershed plates are ulnar longer and radial shorter and can therefore be mounted
very far distally and ulnarly to fix these fragments. Image courtesy: Hintringer et
al.[24]
Volar Rim Fragment
For very small volar marginal fragments that cannot be adequately stabilized with
a single plate, alternatives such as small hook plates, screws, and special plates
with attached hooks should be used for fixation ([Fig. 12A–D]). This can increase stability and may prevent volar redislocation.
Fig. 12 Treatment options for volar rim fractures. (A) Schematic illustration of an ulnar volar rim fragment. (B) These small fragments can only be visualized on the computed tomography scan. (C) Small hook plates, (D) or screws can be used to fix these fragments. Image courtesy: Hintringer et al.[24]
The size, location, and shape of these fragments determine the type of restoration
([Fig. 10B–E]). While larger fragments can be addressed by plates extending ulnar distally, pure
rim fractures must be stabilized by special claw plates ([Figs. 11B and ]
[12C]) or plates with attached claws ([Fig. 10C]), because otherwise there is a risk that the complete first carpal row slips with
the small rim fragment over the plate to the volar side. [Fig. 13] summarizes different possibilities to stabilize volar rim fractures.
Fig. 13 Variety of volar plates for stabilizing volar ulnar key fragments. (A) FPL plate with a gap for the FPL tendon extends ulnar very far distally and can
also reach a radial fracture due to the oblique arrangement of the screw holes. (B) Special hook plate for purely ulnar key fragments. (C) Double thread screws for boar rim fragments that must be large enough to catch them.
(D, E) Hook plates bench for stabilizing narrow rim fragments. (F) Combination of a watershed plate with a hook plate for a combined fracture into
the shaft. FPL, flexor pollicis longus.
After each stabilization, a translation test must be performed in a volar and dorsal
direction ([Fig. 14A]). If sufficient stability cannot be achieved despite stabilization of the small
fragments, the carpus should be stabilized with a K-wire from the radius transarticularly
into the lunate ([Figs. 12C] and [14B]). In the case of symmetrical instability to the volar, a drill wire from the radius
into the scaphoid can additionally increase stability.
Fig. 14 Volar shift test and transfixation of the carpus. (A) After stabilization of volar rim fragments, a palmar shift test must always be performed,
as additional ligamentous lesions may be present. If the carpus is unstable, it is
recommended to drill a transfixing drill wire from the radius into the lunate in the
correct position. (B) Transfixation of the carpus with the ulnar edge plate in place if the volar shift
test is positive.
Volar Radio-Ulnar Fractures
If the volar fragmentation runs over the entire aspect of the distal radius ([Fig. 15A]) and this can be only the rim or also a bigger volar block, a wider plate can be
used to embed these fragments ([Fig. 15A–D]). Today, there are special plates with two separate arms that create a gap for the
flexor pollicis longus tendon ([Fig. 15D]). Theoretically, the tendon runs in this gap and the pressure on the tendon is reduced.
The Soong classification for plate positioning in relation to the watershed line is
not applicable for these plates.[41] As an alternative, special frame plates mounted far distally can be used. However,
due to their position distally to the watershed line, early plate removal should be
planned to avoid subsequent flexor tendon irritation or rupture.
Fig. 15 Treatment options for volar radio-ulnar fractures. (A) Schematic illustration of a volar radioulnar key type fragment. (B) The fragment is easily identified in the axial computed tomography scan. (C) Long distal frame plates, fracture-specific plates or flexor pollicis longus plates
(D) can be used in these cases. Image courtesy: Hintringer et al.[24]
Once the volar fragments are stabilized, testing for residual volar instability must
be performed, as concomitant ligamentous lesions are often present. In these cases,
the carpus must be temporarily transfixed to the radius in a neutral position of the
lunate with one or two K-wires. The K-wires are removed after 6 weeks ([Fig. 14A, B]).
Conclusion
Previous classifications of DRF were mainly based on plain radiographs and did not
reflect the true severity and nature of the fractures. Furthermore, they are not clinically
useful as they do not provide the treating hand surgeon with any guidance for the
best method of treatment. Therefore, they are reserved for descriptive purposes or
as research tools.[24]
[25]
[26]
More recent CT and pathobiomechanically based classifications include fracture mechanism
and factors relevant to treatment and prognosis. Although the treatment of DRF has
been revolutionized by the introduction of volar polyaxial angular stable plate systems,
secondary dislocation may occur, leading to malunion or destruction of the articular
surface with consequent osteoarthritis in the radiocarpal joint. In these cases, revision
surgery and sometimes even rescue surgery such as radioscapholunate arthrodesis is
often necessary.[7]
[8]
For preventing secondary loss of reduction many attempts were made to improve fracture
fixation and different plate models emerged the market with the goal to increase stability.
However, a basic understanding of the essential biomechanics in DRF is crucial to
achieve sufficient stabilization and identify the so-called key fragments.[24]
The position of the wrist in relation to the distal radius during the fall plays a
crucial role in the development of DRF. Similarly, the volar and dorsal radio- and
ulnocarpal ligaments play an important role in stabilizing the carpus against its
tendency to shift ulnar and volar along the radial and volar slopes of the distal
radius. The fracture lines do not occur randomly but follow the insertion of the extrinsic
ligaments and together form osteoligamentous units that act as key fragments in specific
dislocations of the carpus. These key fragments should be given special consideration
and stabilization in the treatment of DRF.
However, the present classification system of DRF with a focus on typical biomechanically
important key fragments is based on previously published biomechanical studies and
the experience/observations of the authors. It is intended to assist treating hand
surgeons in selecting the best fixation method for these sometimes very difficult
fractures. Likewise, there is still a lack of prospective studies confirming this
key fragment-oriented treatment concept, apart from the authors' individual positive
experiences.
