Does simultaneous comminuted fracture of both radial ends represent a distinct fracture pattern?

Abstract

Background: Although isolated distal radius and radial head fractures are common injuries, simultaneous ipsilateral fractures are uncommon. They can range from simple undisplaced fractures at either end to severely comminuted ipsilateral proximal and distal radial fractures. Few cases have been reported with concomitant comminuted distal radius and radial head fractures, and no treatment guidelines are available. Decisions are often based on personal recommendations. The purpose of our study is to increase awareness of this injury pattern and to discuss the mechanism of injury, treatment approach, and functional outcome.

Methods: Skeletally mature patients with comminuted simultaneous ipsilateral fractures of the distal and proximal radius from 2016 to 2021 were identified and studied retrospectively. Demographic information, mechanism of injury, treatment approach, and complication rate were analyzed. Radiographic assessment for inadequacy or loss of reduction and radiographic parameters of the distal radius, including radial inclination, radial length, and palmar inclination, was performed immediately postoperatively and at the final follow-up. Clinical outcomes were determined by calculating the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, measuring the range of motion in both joints, and using the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score at the final follow-up.

Results: A total of 11 patients met the inclusion criteria. All had ipsilateral Mason III radial head fractures and type C (according to the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) classification) intra-articular distal radius fracture. On-table radial head reconstruction and fixation with a proximal radius plate were used for radial head fractures, and osteosynthesis with an anatomic volar locking plate was used for distal radius fractures. The mean follow-up duration was 32 months (range 12-65 months). At the final follow-up, osseous union of both the radial head and distal radius was observed in all patients. The mean VAS score was 1.5 (range 0-7) at rest and 3.9 (range 0-9) with activities, while the mean QuickDASH score was 32 (range 12-65). No significant complications were recorded.

Conclusion: Simultaneous comminuted fractures of the ipsilateral distal radius and radial head represent a distinct injury pattern, most likely resulting from high-energy trauma, such as falling from a height onto an outstretched hand. Greater emphasis should be placed on clinical examination and radiological imaging of the elbow in cases of wrist injuries and vice versa. Treatment involving on-table reconstruction of the radial head and open reduction and internal fixation with a volar plate can lead to good radiological and functional outcomes.