Distal radius fractures, particularly in elderly individuals, are a common problem associated with increasing age and hormonal changes. The choice of treatment, such as cast immobilization or percutaneous pinning, plays a crucial role in achieving optimal functional outcomes and facilitating a return to normal activities. This study aimed to compare the radiological and clinical outcomes of cast immobilization and percutaneous pinning in elderly patients with distal radius fractures.
Background: Distal radius fractures, particularly in elderly individuals, are a common problem associated with increasing age and hormonal changes. The choice of treatment, such as cast immobilization or percutaneous pinning, plays a crucial role in achieving optimal functional outcomes and facilitating a return to normal activities. This study aimed to compare the radiological and clinical outcomes of cast immobilization and percutaneous pinning in elderly patients with distal radius fractures. Methods: This prospective randomized controlled trial enrolled participants aged over 60 years with AO23-A2 or AO23-A3 distal radius fractures and no contraindications for local anesthesia. The participants were randomly assigned to either the cast immobilization or percutaneous pinning group. Follow-up was conducted for 3 months, during which radiological outcomes and clinical outcomes were assessed. Radiological parameters included radial angulation, while clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, range of motion, and grip strength. Additionally, data on complications and pain levels measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were collected for the percutaneous pinning group under local anesthesia.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
26
Using k- wire percutaneous pinning with local anesthesia with one-day surgery protocol
Using sugar tong slab and then replace to short arm casting within 1 week
Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial hospital
Chon Buri, Sriracha, Thailand
Radiological parameters
Radial angulation, radial inclination, ulnar deviation, radial height
Time frame: 1 wk , 4 wk , 3 months
DASH score
Functional outcome
Time frame: 1 month, 3 months
Hand function
Range of motion, grip strength
Time frame: 1 month, 3 months
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.