ENVER IPEK, BAHADIR BALKANLI, YUSUF ALTUNTAŞ, NECMİ CAM
Hand and Microsurgery - 2025;14(1):33-40
Objectives: This study aimed to compare clinical and radiological outcomes of supination and semi-prone positions in the surgical treatment of distal radius fractures. Our hypothesis posits that the semi-prone position reduces the deforming effect of the brachioradialis muscle, resulting in shorter surgical time and favorable outcomes. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 97 patients (Group A: 44, Group B: 53) who underwent volar plating between 2014 and 2022. Demographic data, surgical duration, fluoroscopy time and functional and radiological outcomes were analyzed using Quick DASH, Mayo score and the Gartland-Werley clinical scoring system. Results: No significant differences were observed between the groups regarding age, gender, dominant hand and side. Group A had significantly shorter surgical (71 ± 12.2 min) and fluoroscopy time (2.07 ± 0.3 min) compared to Group B (p<0.01). Functional outcomes (Quick DASH, Mayo scores and grip strength) and radiological parameters (volar tilt, radial inclination, etc.) showed no significant differences. However, Group A demonstrated better pronation (p=0.025) and ulnar deviation (p=0.038). Conclusion: The semi-prone position reduces the deforming effect of the brachioradialis muscle, resulting in shorter surgical duration and fluoroscopy time. This technique can be safely utilized as an alternative to the supination position without affecting functional or radiological outcomes.
