The purpose of this study is to evaluate outcome of variable-angle volar locking plate for treatment of distal radius fractures.

We retrospectively analyzed the results in 45 cases treated by variable-angle volar locking plate. We evaluated the clinical results according to the Mayo wrist performance scoring system and radiographic results.

All cases had bony union. The mean Mayo wrist performance scoring system was 84.8. Between preoperative and immediate postoperative radiographic measurement, the mean radial length improved from 8.4 to 11.8 mm, radial inclination from 14.2° to 22.4°, volar tilt from -4.5° to 9.6°, and intraarticular step-off from 1.8 to 0.3 mm (p<0.05). Between immediate postoperative and latest follow-up radiographic measurements, the mean loss of radial length measured 0.8 mm, radial inclination 0.4°, and volar tilt 0.9° (p>0.05). All cases showed bone union with no evidence of malunion, nonunion, or metal failure.

Treatment of distal radius fractures using variable angle volar locking plate showed satisfactory outcomes. It is a good option to obtain stable fixation without significant loss of reduction.