[Distal radius anterior marginal fractures treated with anterior plating. Mid-term results].

Purpose of the study We report a retrospective series of anterior marginal fractures of the distal radius treated by anterior plating in order to analyze results and identify prognostic factors. Material and methods This continuous series included 22 patients with an anterior marginal fracture of the distal radius treated between 1993 and 1999. Three patients were lost to follow-up. This analysis thus concerned 19 fractures in 15 men and 4 women, mean age 39 years. Surgical reduction and T-plate anterior fixation was used in all cases. Results Mean follow-up was 26 months. Anatomic results were satisfactory in 15 patients and poor in one. Function was satisfactory in 17 patients and poor in one. We noted two types of complication: spontaneously regressive reflex dystrophy (n=2) and osteoarthritis which developed in two patients after incomplete reduction. Discussion Anterior plating can provide satisfactory results for anterior marginal fractures of the distal radius if anatomic reduction is achieved. This method remains our preferred therapeutic approach with special attention being required for anatomic reduction.