Breakage of volar locking plate system for distal radius fractures

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the causes of implant breakage of the volar locking plate system for distal radius fractures and to propose measures for its prevention. Medical data of patients without and with implant breakage were retrospectively compared. Postoperative reduction loss significantly affected implant breakage and should lead to close monitoring of these patients. Moreover, the absence of a distal locking screw aiming at the radial styloid and plate fixation with a gap formation of 2 mm or greater from the volar surface of the distal radius were significantly associated with breakage of distal locking screws and should be avoided.