Background: Distal radius fractures are common orthopedic injuries, but the best treatment for elderly patients is still debated.
Objectives: This study explored the short-term outcomes of closed reduction and pin fixation surgery in patients over 60 with these fractures.
Methods: In this prospective study, we evaluated 113 patients over 60 with isolated distal radius fractures treated at Shafayahyaeian Hospital in Tehran from 2022 to 2023. We used the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire to assess radiographic and functional outcomes, including radiological findings, range of motion, and functional scores. Evaluations were conducted immediately post-operation and at 1.5 and 9 months post-surgery. Hand strength was compared to that of healthy hands nine months after surgery, measuring wrist motion (extension, flexion, ulnar deviation, radial deviation, supination, and pronation) and analyzing radiographic findings, such as palmar tilt, radial inclination, and radial height (RH) indices.
Results: Nine months post-surgery, the QuickDASH questionnaire score indicated excellent results in 40 patients, good results in 65, acceptable results in six, and poor results in two. Mean wrist flexion and extension were 62.5±9.6 and 67.6±11.4 degrees, respectively. Ulnar Deviation, supination, radial deviation, and pronation averaged 24.4±5.2, 67.3±12.7, 25.9±3.2, and 76.9±14.2 degrees. Significant positive correlations (P<0.05) were found between wrist range of motion and hand function scores for extension, flexion, supination, and pronation. Although there was a decrease in mean radiographic findings of palmar tilt (PT), radial inclination (RI), and RH, no significant differences were found in the stages of fracture stabilization. Hand grip strength showed no significant difference between the operated and healthy hands (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Mean hand grip strength nine months post-surgery was similar in both the operated and healthy hands. Closed reduction and pinning are effective treatments for distal radius fractures in patients over 60, restoring radiographic parameters and functional outcomes.
Type of Study:
Research Article |
Subject:
Hand surgery / Elbow Received: 2023/08/29 | Accepted: 2023/11/29 | Published: 2024/02/1