What is volar plate fixation?

What is volar plate fixation?

Volar locking plate fixation via open reduction and internal fixation is an increasingly accepted method for managing displaced distal radius fractures. Volar plating offers biomechanically stable fixation, allows early rehabilitation, and enables fixation of comminuted or osteopenic bone.

What is volar plating?

Volar plating is indicated in nearly all unstable fractures of the distal radius. It is used in young and active patients for optimal reconstruction of the articular surface and restoration of bony anatomy while allowing nearly immediate, but protected, active range of motion.

What is the volar approach?

The volar approach for dorsally displaced distal radius fractures utilizes an incision that is centered longitudinally upon the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon.

What is a volar locking plate?

Background: A volar locking plate (VLP) is the most frequently used form of implant used for open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fractures. They are known to have a complication rate of up to 27%. We hypothesized that plate design could influence complication rates.

What is volar Barton fracture?

Barton’s fracture is a fracture dislocation of the distal radius in which either the volar or dorsal aspect of the distal radial articular surface is sheared off with disruption of the radiocarpal joint. It is usually caused by violent direct injury to the wrist.

What is the functional significance of the volar plate?

The volar plate prevents the finger from bending backwards and helps stabilize the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, the middle joint of the finger.

What does a volar plate injury look like?

Symptoms of a volar plate injury include pain and swelling at the joint, tenderness on the palmar side of the joint, and joint instability. If the finger is dislocated, it may be noticeably out of alignment.

How long does a volar plate injury take to heal?

You have injured a ligament called the volar plate. This takes 4 – 6 weeks to heal, during this time you must wear a splint which allows the injured finger/s to bend but prevents full straightening of the injured joint. The splint must be worn continuously for 4 – 6 weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.