The effects of osteoporosis on functional outcome in patients with distal radius fracture treated with plate osteosynthesis

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of osteoporosis on functional results in patients with distal radius fracture treated with plate osteosynthesis.Methods: The study included 37 female patients who underwent osteosynthesis using volar locking plate for distal radius fracture between 2006 and 2008. Diagnosis of osteoporosis was made with bone mineral density measurement. Patients were divided into two groups; Group 1 patients (20 patients; mean age: 56.5 years) had osteoporosis and a mean T-score of -2.6 SD, and Group 2 patients (17 patients; mean age: 37.1 years) did not have osteoporosis and had a T-score of -0.7 SD. Radiological results were evaluated according to the Stewart’s criteria and activities of daily living were assessed with the modified Gartland and Werley score, the modified Mayo wrist scoring system, and the DASH scoring system.Results: According to the Stewart’s radiological evaluation criteria and modified Gartland and Werley scores, there was no statistically significant difference between Group 1 and 2 (p 0.05).However, a statistically significant difference was found between Group 1 and 2 according to the modified Mayo wrist scoring system and DASH scoring system (p 0.05).Conclusion: There was no radiological difference between the osteoporotic and non-osteoporotic patients with distal radius fractures treated with plate osteosynthesis. However, osteoporosis had a negative effect on the results and range of motion of the wrist, and activities of daily living were significantly restricted.