A Trial Comparing Circumferential Casting Versus Splinting in Displaced Colles' Fractures

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA · Jun 24, 2008

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

Primary: To determine the effectiveness of three immobilization methods (circumferential cast \[CC\], volar dorsal splint \[VDS\], modified sugar-tong \[MST\] splint) in maintaining the position of displaced distal radius fractures after successful closed reduction.

Secondary to assess long term functional outcomes associated with fiberglass splint immobilization versus standard cylindrical casting in patients maintaining initial non-operative reductions.

Design: Randomized prospective single blind controlled trial Patients/Participants: Patients over 18 years of age who presented to the ...

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age \> 18 years
• • Displaced fracture of distal radius requiring closed reduction
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Open fracture
• • Previous displaced fracture involving the same or contralateral distal radius
• • neuromuscular deficits or CVA of either upper extremity that impaired functional outcome assessment
• • concurrent carpal bone fractures or dislocations - - unstable fractures requiring primary open reduction and internal fixation
• • skin allergy or sensitivity to either of the immobilization materials
• • Smith's, Barton's or Chauffeur fractures
• • Neurovascular compromise of the affected limb - - Bilateral distal radius fractures that prevented follow-up comparison with a normal contralateral limb
• • Other significant and concurrent injuries in the ipsilateral extremity.
• • Undisplaced distal radius fracture
• • Reduction performed in the ED did not meet criteria for successful fracture reduction