Dorsal plating for distal radius fractures.

A dorsal approach to the distal radius for comminuted intra-articular fractures affords excellent exposure of the joint surface. Dorsal plating can reliably buttress the joint, leading to low rates of arthrosis, but at the expense of wrist stiffness and high rates of extensor tendon problems. New, smaller implants may prove capable of supporting the joint with lower rates of extensor irritation.