Radius, extraarticular, multifragmentary - Bridge plate

In multifragmentary fractures of the radial neck, fixation of the radial head to the diaphysis is achieved by bridge plating.

Bridge plating uses the plate as an extramedullary splint, fixed to the two main fragments, while the intermediate fracture zone is left untouched.

Anatomical reduction of the intermediate fragments is not necessary but alignment, rotation and length of the radius must be restored.

The radial head is completely covered by articular cartilage. The implant is applied to the radial head in a location that causes the least compromise of full pronation and supination.

To determine the location of the “safe zone”, reference marks are made along the radial head and neck, to mark the midpoint of the visible bone surface. Three such marks are made with the forearm in neutral rotation, full pronation, and full supination as shown in the illustration.

The posterior limit of the safe zone lies halfway between the reference marks made with the forearm in neutral rotation and full pronation. The anterior limit lays nearly two thirds of the distance between the neutral mark and the mark made in full supination.

Note: The non-articulating portion of the safe zone for the application of implants to the radial head (or safe zone for prominent fixation) consistently encompasses a 90 degrees angle localized by palpation of the radial styloid and Lister’s tubercle.

As the radial head is a small fragment, a 1.5 or 2.0 T-plate, or a locking proximal radius plate is used to allow purchase of two or three screws in the proximal fragment.

The plate length depends on the fracture fragmentation. With a larger fracture zone, a longer plate has to be chosen.

Prebend the plate according to the surface anatomy of the proximal radius.

In multifragmentary radial neck fractures, indirect reduction is performed. Apply a contoured plate with two or three screws to the radial head.

With the help of reduction forceps, adjust the plate to the diaphysis correcting length, rotation, and alignment.

Use intraoperative C-arm evaluation to check for adequate length and restoration based on contra and ipsilateral wrist.

If reduction is difficult to achieve without subluxation, rule out ulnar malreduction as the cause.

Fix the plate with two or three bicortical 1.5 or 2.0 mm screws to the distal fragment.

Check supination and pronation. Fixation should be stable. Crepitus or restricted motion should be absent. Check fractures and fixation with image intensifier or x-ray.