Results of Single Small Incision Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis in the Treatment of the Distal Radius Fractures

Financial support: None. Conflict of interests: None. Purpose: This study compared minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) using a single small skin incision and conventional open volar locking plate fixation (OP) for distal radius fracture to identify outcome difference. Materials and Methods: Forty-three patients who underwent MIPO using a single small skin incision or OP for distal radius fractures were evaluated retrospectively. Of the patients, 21 were treated with MIPO using a single small skin incision and 22 with the OP method through the conventional volar approach. The postoperative radiographic results and clinical outcomes at the final follow-up in each group were compared. Results: All patients achieved bone union in the MIPO and OP groups. No significant differences in the bone union time, alignment, range of motion, QuickDASH, or pain score were observed. On the other hand, the size of the incision was significant: 23 mm in the MIPO group and 55 mm in the OP group (p<0.001). Conclusion: MIPO technique using a single small incision showed similar satisfactory radiographic and functional outcomes compared to conventional OP for distal radius fractures. The MIPO technique using a single small incision offered advantages, including cosmetic benefits and minimal soft tissue damage, is recommended, particularly in young women and high functional demand patients.