A three-dimensional computed tomography study of the palmar ulnar corner fragment in distal radial fractures
Year: 2023
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Fixing palmar ulnar corner fragments of distal radial fractures can be challenging. We described the palmar ulnar corner fragment morphology in a retrospective cohort study of 40 patients who underwent preoperative wrist computed tomography scans. Palmar ulnar corner fractures were categorized based on articular cross-sectional area, sagittal angulation relative to the radius long axis, palmar cortical length, radioulnar width and associated palmar radiocarpal subluxation. Three types emerged: type 1 fragments involved 37% (SD 10) of the radiocarpal articular surface and were extended in the sagittal plane; type 2 fragments involved 28% (SD 10) of the articular surface and had a long palmar cortex, of which 57% had palmar carpal subluxation; and type 3 fragments involved 13% (SD 2) of the articular surface, had a short palmar cortex and all had palmar carpal subluxation. Understanding palmar ulnar corner fragment morphology may guide optimal reduction and fixation strategy and prevent palmar radiocarpal subluxation, especially in type 3 fractures. Level of evidence IV
Institutions: University of California San Diego, Mayo Clinic
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,750
OpenAlex ID: W4388773015