Potential Risk Factors of Radiocarpal Stiffness Associated with Distal Radius Fractures

Introduction: One of the most common fractures is the distal radius fracture in all theage groups. Among Distal radius fractures, Radiocarpal stiffness is one of the worstcomplications encountered. This study is to record the incidence and potential riskfactors of radiocarpal stiffness associated with distal radius fractures.Method: This is aretrospective study which includes 60 patients diagnosed with distal radius fracturewho underwent volar plate fixation. Patient’s details such as basic data, radiologicaldata and postoperative data were documented. The incidence of Radiocarpal jointstiffness during postoperative follow-ups were recorded and factors associated weredetermined.Result: This study comprised a total of 60 individuals who had their distalradius volar plate fixation. Multiple variables such as preoperative swelling, type offracture (Intra-articular or Extra-articular), type of fixation (with or without k-wire),post-operative radiological changes pertaining to parameters such as volar tilt, Radialinclination and ulnar variance, rehabilitation was corelated with the incidence ofRadiocarpal joint stiffness in distal radius fractures. Conclusion: Factors such as intraarticular extension, preoperative severe swelling, use of additional k- wire, unsatisfiedvolar tilt, improper rehabilitation is associated with a higher incidence of radiocarpaljoint stiffness in patients with distal radius fracture. Re-operative risk notification andpostoperative precautions are necessary for relevant patients.