The purpose of this investigation is to compare functional outcome measures and range of motion for patients receiving glucocorticoid (GC) injections versus those not receiving GCs for the treatment of distal radius fractures. The investigators hypothesize that patients who receive GC will have improved ROM and functional outcome measures compared to patients who do not receive GC. In addition, this study aims to determine if there is a difference in rates of complications and postoperative pain control between the GC and non-GC groups. In order to accomplish these aims, the investigators will conduct a prospective, randomized, controlled investigation.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
200
Intraoperative: Single intraoperative dose of 10 mg intravenous dexamethasone
Postoperative: A 6-day oral methylprednisolone (oral GC) taper course. The oral GC taper course begins on the day of surgery and includes 24mg on day 1, 20mg on day 2, 16mg on day 3, 12mg on day 4, 8mg on day 5, and 4mg on day 6
Geisinger Woodbine
Danville, Pennsylvania, United States
RECRUITINGQuickDASH
best 0-100 worst; functional outcome score for disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand
Time frame: 0-12 months
Visual Analog Scale Pain Score
best 0-10 worst; continuous scale to measure current pain level
Time frame: 0-12 months
PROMIS Pain Interference
best 0-100 worst; measures the effects of a patient's pain on their daily activities and lifestyle
Time frame: 0-12 months
PROMIS Self-Efficacy Manage Symptoms
best 0-100 worst; measures a patient's ability to cope with their symptoms related to the procedure
Time frame: 0-12 months
PROMIS Upper Extremity
worst 0-100 best; measures physical function of upper extremities
Time frame: 0-12 months
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