Overview: This video presents the results of a retrospective series of 24 extra-articular distal radius fractures managed via threaded pins. The senior surgeon narrates the video, and still photographs, radiographs, intraoperative fluoroscopic images, and text slides summarize the study design and results. The video discusses the preferred early mobilization protocol, which is performed under the guidance of a hand therapist.

Method/Technique: This study investigated the results of extra-articular distal radius fractures and simple intra-articular radial styloid fractures stabilized via a novel threaded cannulated device. This retrospective study included 24 distal radius fractures managed via a threaded pin device. Minimum follow-up was 1 year. Outcome data included wrist range of motion, grip strength, and pinch strength. Radiographs were analyzed to determine volar tilt and radial height. At final follow-up, patients completed the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire.

Results: At a mean follow-up of 2 years (range, 1 to 4 years), mean flexion was 89%, mean extension was 96%, mean supination was 99%, and mean pronation was 100% compared with contralateral wrist motion. Mean grip strength was 93% (range, 40% to 137%) and mean lateral pinch strength was 99% (range, 48% to 130%) compared with the contralateral upper extremity. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 4.4 (range, 0 to 35) at final follow-up. One patient experienced 6 mm of radial height loss based on a comparison of initial postoperative radiographs with radiographs obtained at final follow-up. One patient elected to undergo quiescent threaded pin removal, and one patient had tenderness during wrist range of motion that resolved after pin removal. After hardware removal, neither patient experienced additional symptoms. No postoperative soft-tissue complications occurred, which was an expected benefit of the minimally invasive approach and intramedullary placement of the device.

Summary: The threaded pin is a minimally invasive, reliable fracture fixation option for the management of extra-articular distal radius fractures. The stability of fixation allows patients to begin early active range of motion postoperatively.