What is Henry approach?
The anterior (Henry) approach offers good exposure of the whole length of the radius. The length of the incision depends on the extent of exposure needed. The Henry approach in the proximal forearm might result in a more obvious scar. The distal landmark is the radial styloid process.
What is a volar approach?
The volar approach for dorsally displaced distal radius fractures utilizes an incision that is centered longitudinally upon the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon.
What is Lafontaine criteria?
Accordingly, Lafontaine considered a distal radius fracture unstable if three or more of the following factors were present: dorsal angulation exceeding 20°; dorsal comminution; intra-articular radiocarpal fracture; associated ulnar fracture; and age over 60 years.
Is surgery necessary for distal radius fracture?
When a distal radius fracture is complex or unstable, it will most likely require a surgical approach to ensure the fracture stays in place during the healing process.
What is the volar aspect of the distal radius?
The volar surface of the distal radius is relatively flat and broad but is covered by multiple layers of soft tissue. Superficially, the volar anatomy of the wrist includes, from radial to ulnar: the radial artery, flexor carpi radialis tendon, palmaris longus tendon, and the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon.
How is fracture angulation detected?
To describe fracture angulation the direction of the distal bone and degree of angulation in relation to the proximal bone should be stated. Medial angulation can be termed ‘varus’, and lateral angulation can be termed ‘valgus’.
When does the distal radial physis close?
The epiphysis of the distal radius begins to ossify at 8 to 18 months of age and closes at ∼17 years, with closure occurring earlier in girls than in boys.
When should a distal radius fracture be fixed?
It can also occur along with a fracture of the distal ulna (the forearm bone on the small finger side). In these cases, the injury is called a distal radius and ulna fracture. Depending on the angle of the distal radius as it breaks, the fracture is called a Colles or Smith fracture.
