Factors Affecting Outcomes of Adult Forearm Fractures Treated by Locking Compression Plate

Aim: Although internal fixation of forearm fractures by dynamic compression plates had been studied extensively, the details of optimal fixation by locking compression plates are not clearly defined. Besides the factors affecting the functional outcome is still the subject of considerable debate. The present study is designed to evaluate factors affecting the outcomes of adult forearm fractures treated via locking compression plate.Method: The patients with Gustillo Anderson type 3 open fractures or the ones treated in intensive care unit were excluded and thirty-six forearm fractures treated by locking compression plate were prospectively followed. Disability Arm Shoulder Hand (DASH) and Anderson criteria scores for assessment of outcomes obtained at sixth month were evaluated. The patients were followed up for 4 (3-6) years on average. Findings: In 18 (50%) patients, fractures were caused by simple fall. The mean healing time of the fractures was 13.2 ± 2.1 weeks. Patients, who smoked or had open fractures or complications, had longer healing time. Mean DASH score was calculated as 13.9 ± 5.9. Upon presence of open fracture or postoperative complication there was a significant deterioration in scores. Although the cause of the injury had some effect on functional results the mechanism (whether the injury was direct or indirect) made no difference. Conclusion: Fracture type was the most important factor affecting both healing time and outcome. Being an open fracture or the presence of postoperative complication deteriorates the outcome. The functional results were somewhat poorer in fractures caused by simple fall.