Prospective Study of Evaluation of Outcomes of Volar Barton Fractures of Distal Radius Treated by Volar Plating

Background Volar Barton fracture is a shearing mechanism of injury that results in a fracture dislocation or subluxation of the distal end radius in which the volar rim of the distal end radius is displaced with the hand and carpus. As open reduction and volar plate fixation ensures more consistent correction of displacement, maintenance of reduction and early mobilization, this study evaluates the anatomical and functional outcome of open reduction and plate fixation in the management of volar Barton fractures in a series of 30 patients. Aim To evaluate the results of volar Barton fracture treated by volar plating, on the basis of anatomical and functional outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS Study site J. L. N. Hospital and Research Centre, Bhilai (C. G. ) Study populationAll volar Barton fracture of distal radius cases satisfying the inclusion criteria and willing to take part in the study. Study design A PROSPECTIVE STUDY, OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OBJECTIVE OUTCOME- Objective outcomes were assessed at 12 weeks after the procedures using the demerit point system of Gartland and Werley based on objective and subjective criteria, residual deformity and complications. RESULTS Maximum number of cases were recorded in the age group of 41-50 years with males being more affected than females. Right side was predominantly involved. Cause of injury was road traffic accident in 50 % of the cases. Injury to ulnar styloid process was present in 26.67 % of patients. Volar tilt of more than or equal to 15 degrees was present in 83 % of the patients pre-operatively while it was present in 86.67 % of the patients post-operatively and in follow-up period. Pre-operative radial shortening of 3-6mm was present in 50 % of the patients and in 36.67 % in the post-operative and follow-up period. Radial inclination of more than 14 degrees was present in 83 % of the patients in pre-operative period and in 87 % in post-operative and follow-up period. Maximum patients had movements in the normal functional range in the post-operative period. According to Demerit score system of Gartland and Warley, results were good in 53 % of the patients in post-operative period and in 40 % after 12 weeks while they were excellent in 33 % in post-operative and 47 % of the patients after 12 weeks. Complications occurred in 23 % of the cases.