Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the functional and radiological outcomes of volar locking plate and external fixation treatments in older patients with displaced intra-articular distal radius fractures.
Materials and Methods: A total of 52 patients were included in the study. . External fixation treatment was applied to 28 patients, while volar locking plate treatment was applied to 24 patients. Clinical and radiological evaluations were conducted during the patients' final follow-up examinations.
Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of follow-up periods, gender, age, and fracture type. Out of the fractures, 31 were classified as AO C1, 11 as C2, and 10 as C3. When examining the clinical results, it was observed that the flexion–extension arc, supination–pronation arc, and grip strength were similar in both groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of QDASH scores. Regarding radiological results, while there was a statistically significant difference in radial height and articular step-off in the volar locking plate group.
Discussion: Although the volar locking plate is superior in terms of radiological parameters and provides lower complication rates, the external fixator is a surgical technique that can be preferred in older patients due to its acceptable results and easy applicability.

Key words: distal radius fracture; open reduction internal fixation; volar locked plating; external fixation.