Distal Radius Fractures: Indications for Plate Fixation

Plate fixation of displaced distal radius fractures has become increasingly popular after the development of the volar locking plate. This plate has become the “gold standard” and is currently used for almost all types of distal radius fracture. Anatomical reduction and stable fixation is achievable if correct and careful surgical technique is applied. The functional results after plate fixation are good, but the superiority over other treatment options or even conservative treatment still remains to be proven convincingly, especially for the elderly patient. The literature shows a surprising lack of correlation between radiographic results and functional outcome. Some very unstable types of fracture, such as volar shearing (Barton) fracture have a strong indication for plate fixation.