Dorsal Bridge Plate

Mikel Tihista, MD

Content Contributor

Evolution of Dorsal Bridge Plate

“Internal” distraction fixators (dorsal bridge plates) were originally designed in an effort to mitigate the pitfalls of external fixators. These function to the same extent as external fixators, utilizing traction and ligamentotaxis (applying a longitudinal force to ligaments which then helps to pull the bone they are attached to into the right place) for restoration of the articular surface of the joint.

Securing the plate after traction/distraction allows for restoration of the 3 critical goals of fixing distal radius fractures: restoring radial length, radial inclination and volar tilt (inclination and tilt are anatomical components of the articular surface of the distal radius). While an external fixator functions in a similar kinematic way in order to accomplish the above, there are notable advantages that the dorsal bridge plate has demonstrated in patient studies.

These include improved patient comfort and superior patient outcomes, no risk of pin track infection, and greater biomechanical stability that allows earlier weight bearing. This is particularly important for patients with concomitant lower extremity injuries. Studies have also suggested there is a decreased risk of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) with the use of dorsal bridge plates.

The major drawback of using a dorsal bridge plate is that a secondary surgery is required in order to remove the plate (although external fixator removal may need to be done in the operating room as well, as removal in a clinical setting can cause significant patient discomfort). Compared to external fixators, there is a risk of tendon entrapment during placement of a dorsal bridge plate. This can lead to tendonitis and eventually rupture. This risk can be minimized by securing the plate to the second metacarpal rather than the third, but this is not always possible.

Technology Spotlight

Skeletal Dynamics Dorsal Spanning Plate

Skeletal Dynamics Dorsal Spanning Plate is designed for distal radius fractures with severe comminution requiring prolonged fixation as an alternative to external fixation. It functions similar to other dorsal bridge plates on the market, designed to optimally restore radial length and neutralize loads on the consolidated fracture fragments.

This plate is specifically designed to avoid Lister’s tubercle (anatomic structure that the extensor tendon to the thumb courses around) and promotes anatomic positioning of fractured fragments. It has a “shovel” tip that aids insertion beneath muscle helping to avoid entrapment of extensor tendons. The plate is also pre-contoured to account for the natural 10 degrees of radial angulation. The plate is equipped to attach to a handle that allows for easy and controlled insertion of the plate.