Factors in redisplacement of paediatric distal radius fractures

Redisplacement after manipulation can occur in distal radius fractures. We performed a retrospective study of 73 patients undergoing manipulation with or without K-wire fixation. From the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative films we measured anteroposterior and lateral angulation and translation. Reangulation of each fracture was calculated. Factors demonstrating significant correlation with reangulation were age, initial radial translation, ulna fracture, distance from fracture to physis and inadequate correction of translation or angulation. This emphasizes the importance of adequate fracture reduction. In those cases in which translation or angulation cannot be full corrected at manipulation, fixation with K-wires may be appropriate.