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Abstract

Background: Distal radius fractures are among the most frequent skeletal injuries. Volar locking plate fixation has gained preference due to its biomechanical stability and potential for early wrist mobilization. This study evaluated the functional outcome of distal radius fractures treated with volar plating and analyzed the influence of effect modifiers on recovery. Objective: To determine the frequency of good-to-excellent functional outcomes following volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures and to assess associated effect modifiers. Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore, from December 18th, 2024 to May 30th 2025. Eighty adults with displaced distal radius fractures were included through consecutive sampling. All underwent open reduction and internal fixation using a volar locking plate via the Henry approach. Functional outcome was assessed at three months using the Mayo Wrist Scoring System. Patients were categorized as having good-to-excellent (≥80) or fair-to-poor (<80) outcomes. Associations of age, gender, diabetes, smoking, BMI, and fracture type with functional recovery were analyzed using Chi-square test. Results: The mean age was 36.4 ± 12.7 years; 83.8% were male. At three months, 75% of patients achieved good-to-excellent outcomes. Younger age (<40 years), non-diabetic status, and non-smoking status were significantly associated with better recovery (p < 0.05). Gender, BMI, and fracture type showed no significant effect. Conclusion: Volar locking plate fixation offers stable anatomical reduction, allows early rehabilitation, and provides high rates of functional success in distal radius fractures.