Effect of ulnar styloid fixation on functional and radiologic outcomes after distal radius fractures

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the functional and radiological outcomes of ulnar styloid fractures, with or without internal fixation, that followed distal radius fractures. Methods: Between January 2011 and June 2017, 206 distal radius fractures were operated on in our hospital. In total, 71 patients were included in the study. Thirty-five ulnar styloid fractures were fixed, and Thirty-six could not be fixed. The mean age of patients was 45 years (20–64 years), and the mean follow-up time of patients was 19 months (12–30 months) Results: In the unfixed ulnar styloid fracture group, the QuickDASH score was 20.8 and Mayo wrist score was 65. On the other hand, in the fixed ulnar styloid fracture group, the Quick DASH score was 11 and Mayo wrist score was 75. When comparing the groups, no statistically significant differences were found between their Quick DASH scores, Mayo wrist scores, grip strength, and wrist movements (p>0.05). In the unfixed group, 10 nonunions were observed, while in the fixed group, 9 nonunions were observed. Conclusion: In our study, ulnar styloid fracture fixation did not affect the functional outcomes of distal radius fractures. Surgeons should be more selective for ulnar styloid fixation in patients with ulna styloid fracture combined wrist fractures.