Early experience with the TriMed fragment-specific fracture fixation system in intraarticular distal radius fractures.

Abstract

This paper reports the results of fixation of intraarticular fractures of the distal radius using the TriMed fragment-specific fixation system by surgeons early in their experience with the system. A consecutive series of 22 AO types C2 and C3 fractures in 21 patients were internally fixed with the system. Restoration of articular congruity to less than 2 mm was possible in 20 fractures. At a minimum of 6 months follow-up, mean volar and radial inclination were 8 degrees and 25 degrees , respectively, with no loss of reduction. The patients had a mean of 50 degrees flexion, 63 degrees extension and a pronation-supination arc of 149 degrees . The mean subjective Patient Rated Wrist Score was 20. Our complication rate was comparable to other published series despite long operating times. Therefore, we commend the system as a powerful tool to treat these difficult fractures but acknowledge the significant learning curve.