Functional Outcome of Volar Barton Fractures Treated with Volar Plating: A Retrospective Study of 34 Cases

Background: Volar Barton fractures are unstable intra-articular fractures of the distal radius and often require operative stabilization to restore alignment and permit early mobilization. This study evaluated the functional outcome of volar Barton fractures treated with volar plating.

Methods: This retrospective, non-controlled study included 34 patients with volar Barton fractures treated with volar plate and screw fixation at a tertiary care centre between 9 November 2020 and 5 February 2021. Demographic profile, mode of injury, timing of surgery, radiological parameters, fracture union, complications, and functional outcome were assessed during follow-up.

Results: The largest proportion of patients was in the 51-60 year age group (15/34, 44.11%). There were 28 males and 6 females. Fall on an outstretched hand was the commonest mode of injury (24/34, 70.59%), and Frykman type III was the most frequent fracture pattern (22/34, 64.71%). Seventeen patients (50.00%) underwent surgery within 6 hours of injury. All fractures were closed. Radial shortening greater than 6 mm was noted in 2 patients (5.88%). Radiological union was seen in 30 patients (88.23%) by 6 weeks, and all fractures united subsequently. No postoperative infection was observed. Excellent to good functional outcome was achieved in 90% of patients. Eleven patients (32.35%) returned to their pre-injury occupation or lifestyle within 6 months, and 16 patients (47.06%) returned within 12 months. Post-traumatic arthritis developed in 7 patients (20.59%).

Conclusion: Volar plating provided stable fixation, maintained reduction until union, and produced satisfactory functional outcome with a low complication rate in patients with volar Barton fractures.