Plate Osteosynthesis Significantly Shortens Recovery After a Distal Radius Fracture
An interview with Dr. Ciprian Pașcu, specialist physician in Orthopedics and Traumatology, about the 2.4 VA LCP-DRP variable-angle plate used in treating distal radius fractures.
After an accident that leaves you with a fracture of the distal radius, is it natural to worry about what comes next? You might picture yourself immobilized for weeks, barely able to move after months of physiotherapy, and no longer able to enjoy your favorite sport. The latest developments in anatomical implants show that they can significantly shorten recovery time and help patients regain mobility much faster. We spoke with Dr. Ciprian Pașcu, a specialist physician in Orthopedics and Traumatology with additional training in arthroscopic surgery, about treating distal radius fractures with osteosynthesis plates. The variable-angle distal radius plate "2.4 VA LCP-DRP," used in surgery for distal radius fractures, makes recovery easier, allowing patients to resume their activities - including sports - in a short amount of time. Dr. Ciprian Pașcu is part of the team at Sanador Hospital in Bucharest, where he has practiced since 2016. He has completed numerous specialization programs abroad in Orthopedics and Traumatology, including at Cork University Hospital and South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital in Cork, Ireland, as well as Limerick University Hospital in Ireland.
Why did you choose to use the 2.4 VA-LCP DRP variable-angle osteosynthesis plate?
Dr. Ciprian Pașcu: I chose this plate for treating distal radius fractures for several reasons. First, it's an anatomically shaped implant that conforms to most types of fractures of the distal radial epiphysis. I also chose this product because the screws can be locked into the plate. It's a low-profile implant that, when positioned correctly, doesn't interfere with the surrounding structures it comes into contact with, particularly the flexor tendons. Another advantage of the 2.4 variable-angle Distal Radius LCP plate is the material it's made of - a predominantly titanium alloy - which makes it MRI-compatible.
How easy is this implant to use?
Dr. Ciprian Pașcu: After years of using it in surgery, I've found that everything becomes much simpler once you're familiar with Depuy Synthes implants and instrumentation. The instrumentation is easy and pleasant to work with, especially when paired with the Colibri power tool and the universal AO device fitted with a torque-limiting screwdriver.
How do patients adapt after surgery with this implant?
Dr. Ciprian Pașcu: I've noticed that patients tolerate this implant very well, which I believe is due to its anatomical design. Every patient I've treated with the 2.4 variable-angle Distal Radius LCP plate has resumed their activities very quickly. After the fracture consolidates - typically around 2-3 months after surgery - some have even gone back to playing sports, of course following proper medical rehabilitation at specialized centers. I remember one young patient who returned to playing rugby, and another who plays tennis without any problems at all. Both have the same type of implant.