Comparative studies of locking volar plates for distal radius fracture. Concerning the site of insertion of distal screw

Studies in the title were performed with 5 products of the locking volar plate (LVP) for the fracture of which frequency having been raised along with the elderly population increase, by evaluation through multi-slice CT images. Plates employed were ACU-LOC DISTAL RADIUS SYSTEM standard (I) or narrow (II) (KOBAYASHI pharmaceutical), Locking Voral Plate System (III) (Nakashima Medical), Matrix SmartLock (IV) (Stryker) and Locking Distal Radius System 2.4 (V) (Synthes), which were fixed with the artificial left distal radial bone (SAWBONES) at the optimal position (the distal screws were positioned as close as possible to the joint surface) through discussion by 3 orthopedists and a manufacturer in charge. CT was conducted with Toshiba Aquilion 16 and by the workstation M900 QUADRA (ZIOSOFT), multi-planar images were reconstructed along the parallel axis to the distal screw. Plates were compared for their thickness, width, anatomical feature, water shed line, angle between plate and distal screw, number of screws, diameter, and surgical feature. The lateral view of joint supporting portion gave the position of I and II plates to be near the center, III and IV, slightly dorsal and V, slightly palmar. Understanding these features of plate, and its most appropriate choice and insertion were concluded important for improved outcome and prevention of complication. (K.T.)