Determination of epiphyseal screw lengths in distal radial fractures: A computerized tomography analysis study

DOI: 10.4328/ACAM.20440 Received: 2020-12-16 Accepted: 2021-01-31 Published Online: 2021-02-09 Printed: 2021-07-01 Ann Clin Anal Med 2021;12(7):751-755 Corresponding Author: Levent Umur, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Acibadem Kadikoy Hospital, Tekin Street, No:8 Istanbul, Turkey. E-mail: dr.flumur@gmail.com P: +90 5322017339 Corresponding Author ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4961-4508 Abstract Aim: The aim of this computerized tomography study was to determine the optimal epiphyseal screw length using the diaphyseal screw length as a reference while performing volar plate osteosynthesis of the distal radius. Material and Methods: Computerized tomography scans of 49 wrists (35 men and 14 women) were used for the measurements. The mean maximal length of one diaphyseal screw and four distal epiphyseal screws was measured and statistical analyses were performed. Results: The results of this study revealed that the epiphyseal screw lengths were highly correlated with the diaphyseal screw length. Based on the data derived from measurements, we recommend using epiphyseal screw lengths of 14, 14, 16 and 14 mm for FU, NU, NR and FR screws, respectively, for 10 mm diaphyseal screws, 16, 16, 16 and 14 mm, respectively, for 12 mm diaphyseal screws, and 16, 18, 18 and 16mm, respectively, for 14 mm diaphyseal screws to achieve safe and secure fixation in volar plating of distal radial fractures. Discussion: Using predetermined epiphyseal screw lengths in volar plating of distal radial fractures may decrease operation time, reduce intraoperative radiation exposure, and avoid the risk of intra-operative or postoperative extensor tendon injury.