Injectable calcium phosphate in the treatment of distal radial fractures

An injectable material which hardened in situ to form a carbonated hydroxyapatite, Norian SRS (Norian Corp., Cupertino, USA), was used as the only treatment of unstable distal radial fractures in six patients. Except for an external dorsal splint for 2 weeks, no other treatment was used. The material maintained reduction except in one case in which there were technical problems during hardening and the material fragmented postoperatively. By 1 year all patients had a satisfactory clinical outcome. There was an early return of motion. The possibility of mobilization 1 or 2 weeks after the operation may reduce postoperative stiffness and increase short-term functional outcome.