Injectable bone cement augmentation for the treatment of distal radius fractures : a review

Fractures of the distal radius often occur as a result of low-energy trauma and are frequently seen in osteoporotic patients. Many biomechanical studies and clinical case series have been carried out to investigate the effects on the fractured bones of different fixation methods such as cast immobilization, percutaneous pins, external fixators, or open reduction with internal fixation. In addition, the use of different bone cements as stand-alone solutions or as an adjunct to the aforementioned fixation methods is described as one possible way of increasing the performance of the fixation by reducing secondary dislocation of the fragments and allowing more intensive rehabilitation of the patients. This review aims to provide an overview of some of the main issues under discussion and a critical evaluation of the different treatments.