A novel surgical technique for distal radius fractures using the "mini distractor"

Zachary O Mallon; Adam M Schlauch

doi:10.1016/j.tcr.2023.100926

A novel surgical technique for distal radius fractures using the "mini distractor"

Trauma Case Rep. 2023 Sep 2:47:100926. doi: 10.1016/j.tcr.2023.100926. eCollection 2023 Oct.

Authors

Zachary O Mallon¹, Adam M Schlauch²

Affiliations

¹ Kaiser Permanente Napa/Solano, Napa, CA, United States of America.
² San Francisco Orthopaedic Residency Program, San Francisco, CA, United States of America.

Abstract

Open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fractures is one of the most common operations for orthopaedic surgeons. A vital step of the operation is restoring radial height, which can be challenging if the surgeon is operating alone. To address this, we present a novel surgical technique called the distal radius mini distractor. The technique utilizes a compression / distraction device in tandem with a volar locking plate to aid in the reduction of impacted distal radius fractures. The written technique guide is presented alongside intra-operative surgical pictures and fluoroscopy. The objective of this article is to introduce the mini distractor technique, which can be of particular use for the surgeon operating without assistance.

Keywords: Distal radius; Technique; Trauma; Upper extremity.

Publication types

Case Reports