Clinical Outcome after Plaster Cast Fixation for 10 Days Versus 1 Month in Reduced Distal Radius Fractures: A...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology
• Rehabilitation medicine

Background:

• Distal radius fractures are common injuries, particularly in older adults.
• Optimal management of moderately displaced distal radius fractures remains a topic of clinical interest.
• Plaster cast fixation duration is a key consideration in treatment protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare clinical outcomes of early (10-day) versus prolonged (1-month) plaster cast fixation for distal radius fractures.
• To evaluate the impact of early mobilization on fracture healing, strength, and function.
• To determine the safety and efficacy of different immobilization durations.

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized study involving 109 patients (age ≥50 years) with distal radius fractures.
• Patients were randomized to either 10-day cast removal with immediate mobilization or 3-week continued fixation.
• Outcomes assessed included grip strength, range of motion, pain, and functional scores at 1, 4, and 12 months.

Main Results:

• Six percent of patients in the early mobilization group experienced treatment failure (re-casting or surgery).
• Early mobilization showed a slight, transient improvement in wrist range of motion at 1 month.
• No significant differences in strength, pain, or functional scores were observed between groups at 4 or 12 months.

Conclusions:

• Early mobilization (10 days) after distal radius fracture reduction is associated with a higher risk of treatment failure.
• The functional benefits of early mobilization are minimal and short-lived.
• Prolonged plaster cast fixation (1 month) is recommended for moderately displaced distal radius fractures to ensure optimal outcomes.