Distal radius fracture fixation with an intramedullary nail.

The purpose of this article is to describe a novel technique and implant system for fixation of unstable (Arbeitsgemeinschat fur Osteosynthesesfragen Types A and B) distal radius fractures. Currently the most common complications directly related to distal radius plate fixation includes tenosynovitis, tendon attrition, and rupture, often necessitating hardware removal. With the advent of this new device, a decrease in soft tissue complication is expected. The implant utilizes the principles of load sharing, subchondral screw divergence, and locked fixed-angle fixation. It is inserted through a small skin incision at the radial styloid and does not further devascularize the fracture fragments. The limited surgical dissection and rigid fracture fixation allow for minimal postoperative immobilization and an early return of function. The authors believe that this system is a valuable addition to the arsenal of distal radius fracture treatment options and can quickly get patients back on the road of recovery.