Multidisciplinary approach to repair of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius in a complicated setting (prehabilitation)

Introduction Treatment of malunited periarticular fracture of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius in a complicated setting is challenging and involved orthopaedic care and related specialties of neurologists, neurosurgeons and rehabilitation specialists. New methods are offered for repair of the distal radius fractures but the results obtained to date cannot be considered satisfactory, since the treatment is aimed at the restoration of the anatomical relationships and the hand function.

The objective was to demonstrate the role of prehabilitation preparing patients for elective reconstructive surgery, to present a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of malunited radius fracture complicated by posttraumatic compression ischemic multineuropathy.

Material and methods The medical history of a 56-year-old patient with distal radius malunion complicated by posttraumatic compression ischemic multineuropathy was reviewed. Outcome criteria included absence of complaints and restored function of the hand and the wrist.

Results A positive functional outcome was recorded after prehabilitation and surgery. Early postop, the DASH scored 35, palmar flexion measured 64° with dorsiflexion of 61° and dynamometry of 30 kg seen with the left involved hand. A faster recovery of the hand function occurred due to regression of neurological disorders.

Discussion Treatment of the distal radius malunion in a complicated setting suggests the involvement of related specialists including neurologists, neurosurgeons, professionals in functional and diagnostic radiology, rehabilitation specialists so that the approach must be multidisciplinary. A preoperative course of prehabilitation supervised by a neurologist and a rehabilitation specialist is essential for the patient to achieve a higher basic level of functionality. Surgical treatment must be a stage of multi-stage multidisciplinary treatment of distal radius malunion in a complicated setting.

Conclusion The clinical case showed an effective multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of distal radius malunion in a complicated setting. Preoperative preparation (prehabilitation) had a positive effect on the postoperative recovery and functional results.

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