RADIOLOGICAL AND FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME IN MANAGEMENT OF RADIUS SHAFT FRACTURE BY DIRECT LATERAL APPROACH – A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Radius shaft fractures require anatomical reduction and stable internal fixation to restore forearm rotation and upper limb function. The present prospective observational study evaluated the radiological and functional outcomes of radius shaft fractures managed through the direct lateral approach. A total of 20 adult patients with isolated radius shaft fractures or both-bone forearm fractures underwent open reduction and internal fixation with plate osteosynthesis. Operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, radiological union, postoperative complications, and functional recovery were assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and Grace and Eversmann criteria. Among the participants, 40% had isolated radius shaft fractures, while 60% had both-bone forearm fractures. Mean operative duration was 53.2 ± 5.1 minutes for isolated fractures and 105.4 ± 9.2 minutes for both-bone fractures, with corresponding blood losses of 115.4 ± 10.2 mL and 170.8 ± 18.4 mL, respectively. Radiological union occurred within 12 weeks in 80% of patients, while 85% demonstrated excellent or good radiological outcomes. Excellent or good functional recovery was observed in 85% of patients. Delayed union occurred in one patient (5%), without other major reported complications. The findings suggest that the direct lateral approach is a feasible surgical option for selected adult radius shaft fractures, although larger comparative studies with longer follow-up are warranted.