Comparison of rehabilitation interventions in nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-7
Author(s):  
Tim Coughlin ◽  
Alan R. Norrish ◽  
Brigitte E. Scammell ◽  
Paul A. Matthews ◽  
Jessica Nightingale ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Outcome Measures ◽  
Distal Radius ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Secondary Outcome ◽  
Dash Score ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
One Year

Aims Following cast removal for nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures, rehabilitation facilitated by advice leaflet and advice video were compared to a course of face-to-face therapy. Methods Adults with an isolated, nonoperatively treated distal radius fracture were included at six weeks post-cast removal. Participants were randomized to delivery of rehabilitation interventions in one of three ways: an advice leaflet; an advice video; or face-to-face therapy session(s). The primary outcome measure was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at six weeks post intervention and secondary outcome measures included DASH at one year, DASH work subscale, grip strength, and range of motion at six weeks and one year. Results A total of 116 (97%) of 120 enrolled participants commenced treatment. Of those, 21 were lost to follow-up, resulting in 30 participants in the advice leaflet, 32 in the advice video, and 33 face-to-face therapy arms, respectively at six weeks of follow-up. There was no significant difference between the treatment groups in the DASH at six weeks (advice leaflet vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.69; advice video vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.56; advice leaflet vs advice video, p = 0.37; advice leaflet vs advice video vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.63). At six weeks, there were no differences in any secondary outcome measures except for the DASH work subscale, where face-to-face therapy conferred benefit over advice leaflet (p = 0.01). Conclusion Following cast removal for nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures, offering an advice leaflet or advice video for rehabilitation gives equivalent patient-reported outcomes to a course of face-to-face therapy.

scholarly journals Immobilization following Distal Radius Fractures: A Randomized Clinical Trial

2018 ◽  
Vol 07 (05) ◽  
pp. 409-414
Author(s):  
J. Hill ◽  
Gabriel Bouz ◽  
Ali Azad ◽  
William Pannell ◽  
R. Alluri ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Range Of Motion ◽  
Grip Strength ◽  
Outcome Measures ◽  
Distal Radius ◽  
Plate Fixation ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Volar Plate ◽  
Dash Score ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Volar Plate Fixation

Background No consensus exists regarding postoperative splinting position following volar plate fixation of distal radius fractures. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether immobilization in supination would result in superior outcomes compared with no restriction of forearm range of motion. Patients and Methods All patients >18 years of age with distal radius fractures indicated for volar plate fixation were eligible. Exclusion criteria were open fracture and concomitant injury to, or functional deficit of, either upper extremity. Patients were randomized to immobilization in (1) maximal supination with a sugar-tong splint or (2) no restriction of supination with a volar splint. Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, and visual analog scale (VAS) score; wrist range of motion; and grip strength were recorded at 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively. A Student's t-test was used to compare mean values of all outcome measures at each time point. Results A total of 46 patients enrolled in the study; 28 were immobilized with a volar splint and 18 were immobilized with a sugar-tong splint. Six-week follow-up data were obtained for 32 patients. There was no significant difference in PRWE, DASH, and VAS scores; or range of motion; or grip strength between the two groups postoperatively. Conclusion Range of motion, grip strength, and patient-rated outcome measures were similar regardless of postoperative immobilization technique in patients with a distal radius fractures stabilized with a volar plate. Surgeons can elect to use the standard-of-care postoperative immobilization modality of their preference following volar plate fixation without compromising short-term return to function. Level of Evidence This is a Level II, therapeutic study.

scholarly journals The treatment of distal radius fractures accompanying dorsally displaced free fragments beyond the watershed line with turning radius and distal volaris radius system plate fixation via the distal palmar approach

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhaofeng Jia ◽  
Shijin Wang ◽  
Wei Jiang ◽  
Chuangli Li ◽  
Jiandong Lin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Distal Radius ◽  
Plate Fixation ◽  
Postoperative Recovery ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Therapeutic Effects ◽  
Dash Score ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Palmar Approach

Abstract Background: Although distal radius fractures (DRFs) are clinically common, DRFs accompanied by dorsally displaced free fragments beyond the watershed line are much less so. At present, it is very difficult to fix and stabilize the displaced free fragments far away from the watershed line with a plate. Our aim was to investigate the clinical effect of DRFs with distally displaced dorsal free mass treated with distal volaris radius (DVR) combined with turning of the radius via the distal palmar approach. Methods: From 2015 to 2019, 25 patients with distal radius fractures associated with dorsally displaced free fragments beyond the watershed line were selected and treated with distal volaris radius (DVR) combined with turning of the radius via the distal palmar approach. This study involved 14 males and 11 females, with an average age of 34.5 years (ranging from 21 to 50 years). The mean follow-up period was 16.5 months (ranging from 12 to 22 months). The dorsal displacement of the free fragments was analyzed by X-ray and three-dimensional computed tomography, allowing characterization of postoperative recovery effects by radial height, volar tilt and radial inclination. For the follow-up, we evaluated effects of the surgery by analyzing range of motion (ROM); Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS); and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score. Postoperative wound recovery and complications were also monitored to evaluate the clinical therapeutic effects of the surgical procedures. Results: X-ray showed that all patients showed reduced fractures, well-healed wounds and recovered function with no obvious complications. Based on the follow-up, patients had a mean radial height of 10.5mm (ranging from 8.1 to 12.6 mm), mean MMWS of 78.8° (ranging from 61 to 90°), mean DASH score of 16.25 (ranging from 11 to 21), mean ROM for volar flexion of 76.5° (ranging from 62 to 81°), mean ROM for dorsiflexion of 77.1° (ranging from 59 to 83) and mean VAS score of 1.4 (ranging from 1 to 3). Conclusion: Treatment of distal radius fractures with accompanying dorsally displaced free fragments beyond the watershed line with turning of the radius and the DVR plate system via the distal palmar approach is effective and has no obvious complications.

scholarly journals Preexisting Carpal and Carpometacarpal Osteoarthritis Has No Impact on Function after Distal Radius Fractures

2017 ◽  
Vol 06 (04) ◽  
pp. 301-306
Author(s):  
Jonah Davies ◽  
Hugo Centomo ◽  
Stéphane Leduc ◽  
Pierre Beaumont ◽  
G.-Yves Laflamme ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Distal Radius ◽  
Functional Outcomes ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Retrospective Case ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Treatment Type ◽  
Significant Difference

Background Functional outcomes of distal radius fractures vary widely regardless of treatment methods. Purpose This study aims to verify whether preexisting carpal and carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis (OA) will negatively impact wrist functional outcome in patients with distal radius fractures. Patients and Methods A retrospective case–control study was done using a prospective trauma database. Patients were matched 1:1 in two groups based on the presence of wrist or carpal arthritis (OA). The groups were matched for sex, follow-up, and treatment type. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 1 year and functional outcomes were assessed using validated scores. Results A total of 61 patients were included. Mean age was 63 years (range: 20–85) and average follow-up was 26 months. There were 31 patients in the OA+ group and 30 in the OA− group. Forty-one patients were treated surgically and 20 nonoperatively. None of the patients in the OA− developed OA during follow-up. Both groups were comparable for sex, residual deformity, and follow-up. There was no significant difference for the visual analog scale, Short Form-12, Quick Disability Arm Shoulder Hand, and Patient-rated Wrist Evaluation, or for radiographic outcomes. Conclusion Preexisting OA in the wrist or CMC does not seem to impact outcomes of distal radius fractures, regardless of treatment, age, or sex. Although this is a negative study, the results are important to help counsel patients with distal radius fractures. Further work must be done to identify other potential causes for negative outcomes. Level of Evidence Level III, prognostic study.

scholarly journals The external fixation can be a good alternative to plate-screw treatment in the surgical treatment of bilateral distal radius fractures: A retrospective cohort study

2021 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 406-413
Author(s):  
Mirza Zafer Dağtaş ◽  
Ömer Kays Ünal
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Treatment ◽  
Distal Radius ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Operation Time ◽  
Good Alternative ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Dash Score ◽  
Functional Difference ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
One Year

Objectives: We aimed to compare the outcomes of two surgical treatment options, external fixator (EF) or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), in patients with bilateral distal radius fractures (DRFs). Patients and methods: Twenty-one patients (11 males 10 females; mean age: 40.0±16.0 years; range, 20 to 67 years) who underwent ORIF (n=10) or EF (n=11) due to bilateral DRF at between January 2011 and December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Q-DASH) was used to calculate functional and symptomatic evaluation. The MAYO wrist scores were used to evaluate pain, functional status, ROM, and grip strength and the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHOQ) was used to measure hand performance in daily life. Results: The operation time was statistically significantly longer in the ORIF group, compared to the EF group (p<0.001). Radial shortening was statistically significantly greater in the EF group, compared to the ORIF group (p<0.001). While the Q-DASH score was lower in the EF group on Day 15 and at one and two months (p<0.001, for each), it was similar between the groups at one year (p=0.507). The MAYO wrist score was higher in the EF group on Day 15 and at one and two months and one year (p<0.05, for each). While the MHOQ score was higher in the EF group on Day 15 and at one and two months (p<0.001, for each), it was similar between the groups at one year (p=0.557). Conclusion: In bilateral DRF cases, hand functions in the first two months after treatment were better in the EF group, compared to the ORIF group. This functional difference between the two groups gradually decreased in the first year and reached similar levels. Our results demonstrate that EF can be a good alternative in the surgical treatment of bilateral DRFs owing to its acceptable results, particularly in the short-term.

scholarly journals The spanning plate as an internal fixator in complex distal radius fractures – a prospective cohort study

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_4) ◽  
Author(s):  
R Liechti ◽  
R Babst ◽  
U Hug ◽  
B -C Link ◽  
B van de Wall ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Distal Radius ◽  
The United States ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Outcome Analysis ◽  
Dash Score ◽  
Initial Operation ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Articular Fractures ◽  
The Mean

Abstract Objective Minimal invasive temporary spanning plate (SP) fixation of the wrist has been described as an alternative treatment method in complex distal radius fractures (DRFs). The purpose of this study is to conduct an outcome analysis of all consecutive DRFs treated by SP fixation representing the so far largest published patient cohort outside the United States. Methods Indication for SP fixation included DRFs with severe metaphyseal comminution, radiocarpal luxation fractures with concomitant ligamentous injuries and very distal intra-articular fractures lacking the possibility of adequate plate anchoring. All consecutive patients undergoing SP fixation of DRFs were prospectively included in a single level I trauma centre between 01/01/2018 and 31/12/2020. Post-operative assessments included radiological, functional and patient-rated outcomes at a minimum of 12 months follow-up. Results In the mentioned timeframe, a total of 508 DRFs were treated operatively of which 28 underwent SP fixation. Average age was 58.1 years (range 22-95 years). The fracture type ranged from AO/OTA type B1.1 to C3.3 and included 8 fracture dislocations. SP removal was performed on average 3.7 months after the initial operation (range 1.4-6.5 months). The mean follow-up time was 14.5 months (range 12-24 months). Radiological evidence of fracture healing appeared on average 9.9 weeks (range 5-28 weeks) after the initial operation. One patient experienced oligosymptomatic non-union. Complications included 2 patients with tendon rupture and one patient with extensor tendon adhesions needing tenolysis at the time of plate removal leaving an overall complication rate of 12%. There was no implant failure and no infection. Mean satisfaction score was 8 (range 0-10) and mean visual analogue scale for resting pain was 0.9 (range 0-9). The mean PRWE score was 17.9 (range 0-59.5) and the mean DASH score was 16.6 (range 0-60.8). Grip strength averaged 23kg (range 4-74kg) amounting to 68% of the opposite side. Mean radial inclination, volar tilt and ulnar variance at 1 year were all within the acceptable limit predictive of symptomatic malunion. Conclusion The radiological, functional and patient-rated outcomes in this study are remarkably good considering the complexity of the included fractures. Therefore, this method represents a valuable alternative for the treatment of complex DRFs in selected patients.

scholarly journals Comparison of functional outcome of extra-articular distal radius fractures treated by volar locking plate versus percutaneous pinning in adults-a retrospective study

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 611
Author(s):  
Shushrut B. Bhavi ◽  
Amith Shanmukgouda Kallanagoudar ◽  
Deepak Kaladagi ◽  
N. B. Sanakal
Keyword(s):  
Retrospective Study ◽  
Distal Radius ◽  
Locking Plate ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Dash Score ◽  
Volar Locking Plate ◽  
Percutaneous Pinning ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Plate Group

<p><strong>Background</strong>: Distal radius fractures are one of the most common fractures in an adult population and accounts for 17.5% of all the fractures. The management of distal radius fractures remains debatable despite the availability of different methods of treatment. The aim of this study is to assess the functional outcomes of extra-articular distal radius fractures treated with percutaneous pinning or internal fixation with volar locking plate in adults.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A retrospective study of 40 patients diagnosed with distal radius fracture with AO classification were treated either with percutaneous pinning (n=20) or open reduction and internal fixation with volar locking plate (n=20) were included in study. DASH score and radiographs at 6<sup>th</sup> month was assessed for functional outcome and radiological union.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Mean age in plate group was 40 and 45 years in K wire group. The mean passive wrist ROM at the final follow-up evaluation in plate group was 63.8<sup>o</sup> extension and 70.5<sup>o </sup>flexion, 81.7<sup>o</sup> supination and 79<sup>o</sup> pronation, compared with 56.75<sup>o</sup> extension and 65.25<sup>o</sup> flexion, 74.7<sup>o</sup> supination and 85.5<sup>o</sup> pronation in patients treated with K wire group. Patients with plate group and K wire group had DASH score of 19.85 and 18.49 respectively (p=0.07) at 6 months follow-up.</p><p><strong>Conclusions:</strong> The use of ORIF with plate resulted in stable fixation of the unstable extraarticular fractures, allowing early post-surgical wrist motion and has good radiological outcome whereas K wire also has advantages of being minimal invasive, reduced hospital stay and minimal cost.</p>

scholarly journals Complications of Radial Column Plating of the Distal Radius

Hand ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (5) ◽  
pp. 614-619 ◽  
Author(s):  
Samuel E. Galle ◽  
Neil G. Harness ◽  
Jacques H. Hacquebord ◽  
Raoul J. Burchette ◽  
Brett Peterson
Keyword(s):  
Distal Radius ◽  
Normal Function ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Consecutive Series ◽  
Dash Score ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Outcomes Measures ◽  
Valuable Adjunct ◽  
Supplemental Fixation

Background: Distal radius fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation are commonly stabilized with a volar locking plate; however, more complex fracture patterns may require supplemental fixation with fragment-specific implants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of distal radius fractures treated with radial column plates. Methods: A consecutive series of 61 patients who sustained distal radius fractures underwent radial column plating alone or in conjunction with other implants between August 2006 and January 2014. Thirty-one patients returned for follow-up or returned a mailed questionnaire at an average of 4.1 years. The outcomes measures included Visual Analog Scale (VAS); Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH); and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) scores. Results: Sixty-one patients with a mean age of 55 years (range, 20-87) met inclusion criteria and were available for follow-up or chart review at an average of 5.2 years (range, 1.6-9.0 years). Seventeen of 61 (28%) underwent radial column plate removal. Twenty patients returned for final follow-up examination, and 11 completed questionnaires via mail. Subjective scores included a mean postoperative VAS of 0.72, DASH score of 17.2, and PRWE score of 15.7. Hardware sensitivity and wrist stiffness were the most common complications at final follow-up. Conclusions: Radial column plating of the distal radius is a safe treatment modality and a valuable adjunct in the setting of complex distal radius fractures, but patients should be counseled that there is a 28% chance that hardware removal may be required. Our retrospective review found evidence of few complications and objective scores consistent with return to normal function.

scholarly journals Redisplacement of paediatric distal radius fractures: what is the problem?

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-8
Author(s):  
Diogo M.C. Constantino ◽  
Luis Machado ◽  
Marcos Carvalho ◽  
João Cabral ◽  
Pedro Sá Cardoso ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factor ◽  
Distal Radius ◽  
Closed Reduction ◽  
Significant Risk ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Cast Immobilization ◽  
Significant Difference

Purpose Distal radius fractures represent one of the most common fractures in children. Our purpose is to analyze risk factors for redisplacement in children with distal radius fractures treated by means of closed reduction and plaster cast immobilization. Methods Retrospective study, including children under the age of 17 years, who underwent closed manipulation and cast immobilization for a distal third radius fracture, between 2012 and 2015. Preoperative radiographs were reviewed for initial translation, angulation and shortening, distance of the fracture from the physis, degree of fracture obliquity and the presence of an ulna fracture. Postoperative radiographs were analyzed for translation, angulation and shortening, as well as the quality of closed reduction. Cast index, gap index and three-point index, were measured on the postoperative radiographs. Redisplacement and re-intervention during follow-up were registered. Results A total of 26 patients were included in this study. Comparison between post-reduction and immediate post-cast removal radiographs did not show any statistically significant difference between translation or shortening. Coronal (p = 0.002) and sagittal (p = 0.002) angulation showed a statistically significant difference, but both median values remained below cut-off values for redisplacement. Redisplacement was observed in four patients. Only one patient underwent remanipulation. All four had full remodelling and proper radiological alignment at final follow-up. Quality of reduction was found to be a statistically significant risk factor for redisplacement (p = 0.013). Conclusion Closed reduction and cast immobilization under general anaesthesia yields good results in the treatment of distal forearm fractures in paediatric patients. Quality of reduction was the only risk factor that we found to be predictive of redisplacement. Level of Evidence: Level III – Retrospective comparative study

Cast immobilization is non-inferior to volar locking plates in relation to QuickDASH after one year in patients aged 65 years and older: a randomized controlled trial of displaced distal radius fractures

2021 ◽  
Vol 103-B (2) ◽  
pp. 247-255
Author(s):  
Sondre Stafsnes Hassellund ◽  
John Håkon Williksen ◽  
Marit Mjelde Laane ◽  
Are Pripp ◽  
Carina Paulsen Rosales ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Range Of Motion ◽  
Distal Radius ◽  
Group Versus ◽  
Nonoperative Treatment ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Secondary Outcome ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Cast Immobilization ◽  
Wrist Function ◽  
One Year

Aims To compare operative and nonoperative treatment for displaced distal radius fractures in patients aged over 65 years. Methods A total of 100 patients were randomized in this non-inferiority trial, comparing cast immobilization with operation with a volar locking plate. Patients with displaced AO/OTA A and C fractures were eligible if one of the following were found after initial closed reduction: 1) dorsal angulation > 10°; 2) ulnar variance > 3 mm; or 3) intra-articular step-off > 2 mm. Primary outcome measure was the abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH) after 12 months. Secondary outcome measures were the Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation (PRWHE), EuroQol-5 dimensions 5-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L), range of motion (ROM), grip strength, “satisfaction with wrist function” (score 0 to 10), and complications. Results In all, 89 women and 11 men were included. Mean age was 74 years (65 to 91). Nonoperative treatment was non-inferior to operation with a five-point difference in median QuickDASH after 12 months (p = 0.206). After three and six months QuickDASH favoured the operative group (p = 0.010 and 0.030). Median values for PRWHE were 19 (interquartile range (IRQ) 10 to 32) in the operative group versus ten (IQR 1 to 31) in the nonoperative group at three months (p = 0.064), nine (IQR 2 to 20) versus five (IQR 0 to 13) (p = 0.020) at six months, and two (IQR 0 to 12) versus zero (IQR 0 to 8) (p = 0.019) after 12 months. Range of motion was similar between the groups. The EQ-5D-5L index score was better (mean difference 0.07) in the operative group at three and 12 months (p = 0.008 and 0.020). The complication rate was similar (p = 0.220). The operated patients were more satisfied with wrist function (median 8 (IQR 6 to 9) vs 6 (IQR 5 to 7) at three months, p = 0.002; 9 (IQR 7 to 9) vs 8 (IQR 6 to 8) at six months, p = 0.002; and 10 (IQR 8 to 10) vs 8 (IQR 7 to 9) at 12 months, p < 0.001). Conclusion Nonoperative treatment was non-inferior to operative treatment based on QuickDASH after one year. Patients in the operative group had a faster recovery and were more satisfied with wrist function. Results from previous trials comparing operative and nonoperative treatment for displaced distal radius fractures in the elderly vary between favouring the operative group and showing similar results between the treatments. This randomized trial suggests that most elderly patients may be treated nonoperatively. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(2):247–255.

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