Application of Rikkli and Regazzoni three-column theory in distal radius intra-articular fracture functional and radiological outcome assessment

Abstract

Objective: Effectiveness of Rikli and Regazzoni Three column theory in treating an intra-articular fracture of the distal radius with T-plate and K-wire in terms of the functional outcome and fracture union.

Methods: This comparative study was done using consecutive sampling technique at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, King Edward University, Mayo Hospital Lahore from June 2013 to March 2017. The sample size was 60 patients, ages between 15- 60year of age, closed intraarticular fracture of the distal radius, less than one month older were included. Two groups were separated. Group A was managed by percutaneous K-wire fixation, and Group B was dealt with by way of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) the usage of T- plates. We observed the wound infection, supination and pronation, flexion, and extension at the wrist joint, bone union, and function. All patients were followed up in the out-patient department (OPD), and wound infection and supination & pronation of the forearm were observed clinically. Union was observed using Hammer et al. criteria, and function was evaluated using the DASH score

Results: There were 49 (81.7%) males and 11 (18.3%) females with an overall male to female ratio of 4.45:1. There were 33 (55%) cases that had the right side, and 27 (45%) cases had left side involved.  The mean age in group-A and group-B was 48.83±11.11 years and 49.87±13.45 years, respectively (p-value >0.05).  The median DASH score after 12 months in group A and group B was recorded as 17.4±11.10 and 12.1±6.3, respectively.