Is single-stage minimally invasive plate fixation safe in open distal radius fractures with metadiaphyseal involvement?: Retrospective evaluation of 54 patients.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and results of one-stage surgery in Gustilo grade 1 and 2 open distal radius fractures with metadiaphyseal involvement.

Methods: This retrospective study included 54 patients with AO-2R3 and metadiaphyseal involvement according to the AO fracture classification. All fractures were treated with a long volar plate using the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique. The patients were divided into two groups as open fracture group (25 patients) and closed fracture group (29 patients), and the groups were compared for their union time and complications and functional and radiological results.

Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of clinical and radiographic results (P > .05 for both). The mean union time was 12.77 (range, 8-20) weeks in the open fracture group and 12.75 (range, 8-18) weeks in the closed fracture group. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of union time (P > .05). Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of major and minor complications. All fractures healed without the need for bone and/or soft tissue grafts.

Conclusion: As a result of this study, using with long volar plate immediately minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis might be safely used as a single-stage definitive treatment for Gustilo grade 1 and 2 open distal radius fractures with metadiaphyseal involvement.

Level of evidence: Level IV, Therapeutic Study.