Distribution of Distal Radius Fracture Lines Revealed by 3D Fracture Mapping

Background: Distal radius fractures are among the most common clinical fractures. In this study, we mapped fracture lines associated with distal radius injuries and converted these mappings into heat maps. This method allowed us to assess the distribution of fracture lines in the distal radius that involve the radiocarpal joint and investigate the correlation between the positions of these fracture lines and the regions of comminution. Methods: A retrospective study analyzed 111 instances of distal radius fractures involving the radiocarpal joint. The E-3D 21.10 software from Central South University in Changsha, China, was used to generate three-dimensional models of the radius and each fracture segment. This extraction process included rotation, translation, and separation to reconstruct the three-dimensional model. After importing the model into the E-3D 21.10 software for registration, fracture lines were marked on the three-dimensional surface image of the radius template. These fracture lines were then combined to form a comprehensive fracture line map, which was later transformed into a heat map. Results: Both Frykman type III and type IV fractures show a pronounced concentration of fracture lines in the volar sections of the scaphoid and lunate fossae, resulting in a red appearance on the heat map. In contrast, fracture lines on the articular surface of the radial styloid process are less frequent, appearing blue on the heat map. Similarly, fractures classified as Frykman type VII and type VIII demonstrate a significant accumulation of fracture lines in the volar areas of both the lunate and scaphoid fossae, indicated in red on the heat map. Meanwhile, fracture lines on the articular surfaces of the radial styloid process, dorsal medial region, and dorsal ulnar notch are notably less concentrated, reflected in blue on the heat map. Conclusions: The findings of this research indicate that the volar regions of the scaphoid and lunate fossae pose a significant risk for distal radius fractures involving the radiocarpal articular surface. In contrast, fractures involving the radial styloid articular surface are comparatively less common. This study provides physicians with a better understanding of the characteristics of distal radius fractures, which will help them select the most suitable surgical techniques for various fracture types.