Improving Diagnostic Accuracy for Distinguishing Buckle Fractures From Other Distal Radius Fractures in Children

Accurately distinguishing between stable and unstable isolated distal radius fractures (DRF) in children allows for appropriate fracture-specific treatment. Although fractures with cortical disruption, displacement, or angulation are unstable, distinguishing stable buckle fractures (BF) from more subtle potentially unstable DRF is challenging. Our quality improvement project aimed to improve radiology reporting accuracy for these subtle fractures from 23% to 90% in a large tertiary pediatric hospital.

Exams with a reported isolated distal radius fracture during baseline (January-March 2016) and intervention (April 2016-June 2019) were reviewed for accuracy. We introduced 3 types of interventions: radiologist education (self-directed learning modules and individual feedback), a new standardized report template, and a measurement tool ("The 1 cm Rule"). In addition, a statistical process control chart tracked accuracy data to study process changes over time.

During the baseline and intervention period, 22 and 480 radiographs, respectively, had either a stable BF or a potentially unstable isolated DRF. Each intervention type created a centerline shift. Overall, reporting accuracy increased from 23% to 90%. Most reports (95%, 639/676) used the template and standard terminology for reporting DRF.

Radiology reporting diagnostic accuracy for distinguishing between stable BF and potentially unstable DRF in children increased to 90% through education, standardized reporting, and a measurement tool to enhance radiologist performance. Our institution plans to expand fracture-specific treatment practices with improved radiology reporting accuracy, including bracing and home management of stable BF diagnosed during an acute care visit.