Outcomes are generally good after locked volar plating for the internal fixation of fractures of the distal
radius.
1
As such, the implants are removed infrequently, usually for cases of dorsal or volar
tendon irritation or rupture, or because improper position of the distal pegs or screws
is appreciated after surgery.
2
It is not known if there are potential side effects to having implanted titanium
plates and screws over the long term. Although there are rare reports of sarcomas
or osteosarcomas occurring in the region of total joint arthroplasties or dental implants
that contain titanium,
3
,
4
,
5
animal studies suggest that titanium has a low risk of carcinogenicity.
6
,
7
Currently, there are no published studies that report on the serum level of titanium
after volar plating of distal radius fractures. Given the current wave of enthusiasm
regarding the implantation of these plates, it remains unclear whether or not these
implants should be left in place for a long period of time.To read this article in full you will need to make a payment
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References
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
October 25,
2009
Received:
October 25,
2009
Footnotes
No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article.
Identification
Copyright
© 2010 Published by Elsevier Inc.
