Perspectives In Medical Research (Apr 2019)
Role of dynamic compression plate in management of both bones forearm fractures
Abstract
Background : Forearm bone fractures are commonly encountered in today’s industrial era. Various treatment modalities were introduced from time to time and each of them had some edge over the previous one. Continuing this process of revolution and based on many years of experience with compression plating and promising results obtained with so called internal fixation. This present study is designed to determine the effects of surgical treatment of both bones forearm and single bone forearm fracture by open reduction and internal fixation with Dynamic Compression Plate. Materials & Methods : This is a prospective study of 30 patients with both bones forearm or single bone forearm fractures which were surgically treated with open reduction and internal fixation with DCP (Dynamic compression plate). Evaluation of patients was done on the basis of radiological union and functional assessment using Anderson et al scoring system. Results : The mean age of the patient is 32.3 years (range 18- 55) with 73% male preponderance. The mean follow up is 12 months (range 6-14 months). Out of 30 cases 54% middle third fractures, 13% proximal third and 33% lower third. Average union time was 8.46 weeks (range 8-12 weeks). The range of motion was determined by Anderson et al1 , scoring system. Our series had 80% of excellent, 17% satisfactory result and 3% failure. Conclusion : Based on our experience and results we conclude that with the use of 3.5 mm DCP for acute diaphyseal fractures of forearm, rigid and anatomical fixation can be achieved. Radial bowing is very important for normal supination and pronation. This can be maintained very well with compression plates. A minimum of 6 cortices should be engaged in each fracture fragment. It is better to use longer plates like a bridge plate in case of comminuted oblique fractures. Radius and Ulna are approached separately to avoid extensive soft tissue dissection and resulting complication.
