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Updated: Apr 23, 2026

Development of a Novel Internal Fixation Model for Rat Radial Fractures: Fracture Healing Assessment and Dorsal Root Ganglion Isolation
Published on: March 13, 2026
The use of plain radiographs in the classification of distal radius fractures
Scott Evans1, Michael David1, Mohammed Kamil Quraishi2
1Department of Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgery, Birmingham City Hospital, Bimingham B18 7QH, United Kingdom.
Introduction:
Classification systems guide surgical planning. We reviewed the accuracy of interpreting plain radiographs to classify distal radius fractures.
Methods:
Pre-operative radiographs of 24 consecutive distal radius fractures were classified using Frykman and AO methods. Classification was repeated intra-operatively under direct vision for comparison.
Results:
Mean age of the patients was 51 years. Pre-operative Frykman scores and AO grades were underestimated, compared with intra-operative visual classification (p < 0.001). One over-estimate occurred, while only 3 of 24 cases were classified correctly pre-operatively.
Conclusion:
Sensitivity of radiographs to classify Frykman or AO grades was 12.5%, indicating interpretation using plain radiographs alone is often inadequate.
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