Functional and Radiological Outcome of Unstable Distal End Radius Fractures After Management With Closed Reduction...

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Radiology

Background:

• Distal radius fractures are a frequent cause of orthopaedic consultation in adults.
• Current management includes closed reduction with Colles' cast immobilization (CRCI) and closed reduction with percutaneous pinning (CRPP).
• Unstable distal radius fractures require careful evaluation of treatment modalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the functional and radiological outcomes of CRCI and CRPP for unstable distal radius fractures.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of two distinct surgical interventions in managing distal radius fractures.

Main Methods:

• A prospective comparative study involving 80 patients with unstable distal radius fractures.
• Patients were alternately allocated to either CRCI or CRPP groups.
• Functional outcomes were assessed using Mayo Wrist Score, Modified Gartland and Werley Score, and Green and O'Brien Scoring System. Radiographic assessment followed established criteria.

Main Results:

• The CRPP group exhibited significantly better radiological parameters (radial length, inclination, volar tilt) than the CRCI group (p < 0.05).
• Functional outcomes, including wrist scores and range of motion (forearm rotation, wrist deviation), were markedly improved in the CRPP group.
• CRPP demonstrated superior results in all evaluated functional and radiological metrics.

Conclusions:

• Closed reduction with percutaneous pinning (CRPP) is superior to Colles' cast immobilization for unstable distal radius fractures.
• CRPP facilitates precise fracture reduction under fluoroscopic guidance, leading to better functional and radiological results.
• CRPP is recommended as the preferred treatment for suitable patients with unstable distal radius fractures.