Analysis of Upper Limb Movement Range and Global Grip Strength After Surgical Treatment of AO Type C Distal Radius Fractures Using LCP Plates and K-wires.

BACKGROUND: This paper presents the outcomes of treatment of AO Type C distal radius fractures using LCP plates and K-wires. The analysis focused on comparison of movement range and global grip strength between the operated limb and the healthy one.

MATERIAL AND METHOD: The study involved 60 patients treated in the Regional Specialist Hospital in Zgierz in the period 2008-2013. LCP plates were used in 31 cases and fixation with K-wires was employed in 29 patients. The movement range and grip strength were evaluated in line with the standards of orthopaedic examination, using a goniometer and a dynamometer. X-ray imaging was used to assess the bony anatomy. The results were subsequently compared with those for the healthy limb.

RESULTS: The analyses showed that neither approach produced a grip strength equal to that of the healthy limb. In two cases of Type C1 fractures treated using LCP plates, the movement range was the same as that of the other upper limb; these results were not obtained in any of the patients with K-wires. Superior outcomes were recorded for LCP plates; however, the differences were not significant. Radiographs revealed a significant difference in the degree of restoration of the articular surface, with LCP plates producing superior outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: 1. The use of LCP plates enables more accurate restoration of the bone anatomy in the distal radius. 2. The mobility and grip strength of the limb were similar for both therapeutic procedures provided appropriate radiographic outcomes had been achieved. 3. The functional deficit in both groups was strongest for rotational movements of the forearm and grip strength of the limb.