Journal List > J Korean Soc Surg Hand > v.20(2) > 1106513

Jegal and Kim: Arthroscopically Assisted Reduction of Distal Radius Fractures

Abstract

Wrist arthroscopy has been used as an important adjunct procedure to distal radius fracture management. This procedure allows minimal surgical intervention and provides excellent visualization of the joint for anatomical restoration of articular fracture of the distal radius and early management of associated injuries. To many, it is still technically challenging to adequately perform arthroscopy in the distal radius fractures. With this review, we aimed to provide an updated arthroscopic technique in the management of distal radius fractures and potential pitfalls of this technique.

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Fig. 1.
Landmarks of dorsal wrist portals for distal radius fracture.
jkssh-20-64f1.tif
Fig. 2.
(A-C) Preoperative radiographs and arthroscopic image of 35-year-old male show intraarticular impaction and comminution of right distal radius fracture. (D) Arthroscopic image shows the restoration of the articular surface after reduction and K-wire fixation. (E) Arthroscopically assisted reduction and percutaneous pinning was performed. The ulnar styloid fracture was stabilized with a tension band wiring technique. (F) Postoperative 13-months radiographs show satisfactory healing.
jkssh-20-64f2.tif
Fig. 3.
(A) Preoperative radiographs of 54-year-old female show intra-articular comminuted fracture of left distal radius. (B) Intraoperative radiograph shows volar locking plate preset after anatomical alignment was regained under an image intensifier. (C, D) Arthroscopic images show the restoration of the articular surface after reduction. (E) The plate was securely fixed with locking screw after temporary K-wire fixation.
jkssh-20-64f3.tif
Table 1.
Arthroscopic classification of interosseous ligament injury
Grade Radiocarpal joint injury Midcarpal instability Step-off
I Hemorrhage of interosseous ligament No attenuation None None
II Incomplete partial or full-substance tear No attenuation Slight gap (less than width of a 1-mm probe) Midcarpal only
III Ligament attenuation Incomplete partial or small full-substance tear Probe can be passed between carpal bones Midcarpal and radiocarpal
IV Complete tear Gross instability 2.7-mm arthroscope can be passed between carpal bones Midcarpal and radiocarpal
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