Active clinical trials for "Radius Fractures"

Distal radius fractures are treated surgically if severely displaced. This study aims to investigate the outcome after surgery. The investigators will randomize patients to either external fixation with optional addition of k-wires or open reduction and fixation with a volar plate.

Promising results have been reported after volar locked plating of unstable dorsally displaced fractures of the distal radius. It offers stable fixation and early mobilization. The investigators' aim is to test if volar locked plating results in better patient-perceived, objective functional and radiological outcomes compared to the less invasive external fixation that has been the standard operation for decades.

Distal radius fractures are the most common fracture to occur in the adult population, and those which are displaced but maintain joint congruity are the most common subtype. Locking-plate technology represents a true advance in the fixation of these fractures, especially in view of the ever increasing incidence of these injuries in an ageing and osteoporotic population throughout Europe and North America. These plates permit rigid fixation, even in osteopenic bone, while avoiding any tethering of soft tissues, as seen with external fixation and percutaneous pinning. For these reasons, this mode of fracture fixation has rapidly gained popularity. Unfortunately, there is presently little evidence to support their use over the more traditional methods of fixation (percutaneous pinning, external fixation). In addition, the technique for their application is more invasive and their cost is considerably greater than these latter two techniques. As such, it is pertinent to evaluate, in a scientifically sound fashion, the outcome of fixation with the three types of implant included in this study. The results of this clinical trial will allow the orthopaedic community to confidently recommend the fixation method which provides the optimal functional, clinical, and radiographic outcome for a patient suffering a displaced distal radius with preserved joint congruity. Null hypothesis: There is no difference in the functional, clinical, and radiographic outcomes of the three treatment methods. Hypothesis: Given the locking nature of modern screw-plate constructs, which produce excellent fixation even in osteopenic bone and permit early range of motion exercises; and given that plate fixation, in contrast to external fixation and percutaneous pinning, does not tether muscle, tendon, or capsule; plate fixation with a volar fixed-angle device should permit earlier and more aggressive rehabilitation and more rapid and complete regain of hand and wrist function when compared to stabilization with external fixation or percutaneous pinning.

The purpose of this study is to compare two different fixationmethods for fractures of the wrist(distal radius fractures). We are comparing an external fixation (Hoffmann-II-non-bridging) vs. an internal fixation(Micronail). Primary endpoint is patient satisfaction as scored by the DASH-questionnaire.Secondary followup is X-rays, strength, PRWE-questionnaire.

Aim: Osteosynthesis with locking plate/screws has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is the only treatment option which allows immediate postoperative immobilization. However, compared to conservative treatment or treatment with external fixators, locking plates are very expensive and the operation can be very challenging, even for experienced surgeons. The long-term results of all treatment modalities are equal, which has been shown in numerous studies. However, there are no evidence based studies published yet which look at short-term outcomes. The investigators do feel but do not know that patients who do not need postoperative immobilization return to work significantly earlier or are independent faster than patients whose wrists are immobilized for up to 6 weeks. If that is the case, then the higher costs and risks of the operation are justified, if not, then we have to re-evaluate our indications for using locking distal radius plates distal radius Methods: Group 1: Treatment of distal radius fractures with either volar or dorsal locking plates. No fixation postoperatively, immediate ROM (range of motion) exercises and usage of the wrist in activities of daily life (ADL) allowed. Radiological and clinical controls 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 12 weeks postoperatively. Endpoints are time to return to work / return to independency (in older people), ROM; Grip strength (with Jamar Dynamometer). Outcome scores are DASH (Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score)and PRWE (Patient related wrist evaluation). Group 2 Treatment of distal radius fractures with either an external fixator +/- K-wires or with K-wires and forearm cast or by cast alone. Main issue is that the wrist is immobilized for a period of 6 weeks. Radiological and clinical controls 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 12 weeks postoperatively. Endpoints are time to return to work / return to independency (in older people), ROM; Grip strength (with Jamar Dynamometer). Outcome scores are DASH and PRWE. Both plating and external fixation / cast fixation are standard and accepted treatment modalities for distal radius fractures. A power analysis indicated that a total sample size of 52 patients randomized equally (1:1) to each treatment arm without any blocking or stratification would provide 80 % statistical power (alpha = .05, beta = .20) to detect a 20% difference in mean DASH and PRWE scores.

Distal radius fractures with dorsal dislocation among patients 70 years or older are randomized to conservative treatment with plaster or internal fixation with a volar plate. Thereafter they are followed at 2 weeks, 5 weeks, 3 months and 12 months with x-ray, functional scores and clinical examination. An additional follow up at three years with X-ray, functional scores and clinical outcome will be conducted after a new written consent of continued participation in the study. A health economy analysis will be preformed at 1, and 3 years for the participants with complete EQ5D.

The objective of this study is to compare a minimal invasive approach with the conventional flexor carpi radialis approach for volar plating of distal radial fractures.

The purpose of this prospective randomized study is to add to the body of knowledge on the treatment of minimally displaced distal radius fractures in patients over 60 years of age. The investigators believe that treating minimally displaced distal radius fractures in people over 60 with a removable splint and early range of motion will provide greater patient satisfaction, fewer complications, and earlier functional returns to pre-injury for these patients compared to those treated with a short arm cast which immobilizes the limb for at least four weeks, and has been shown to lead to longer recovery and possible residual stiffness. The investigators hope to provide sufficient evidence in directing treatment that will give the most efficacious and the most satisfactory return of prior function to patients. Since distal radius fractures in the elderly are common because of poorer bone quality, the elderly proportion of the population is increasing, and controlling health costs is of current concern, answering the question of which treatment produces the best results for all these concerns is of increasing importance now.

For the non-surgical treatment of distal radius fractures in adults a variety cast options are available, including or not the elbow joint. The literature is inconclusive regarding the need to immobilize the elbow joint after reduction of the distal radius fracture.This study was undertaken to evaluate the best method of immobilization between the above and below-elbow cast groups at the end of 6 months of follow-up.

There are many conservative treatment methods, including below arm cast, above arm cast, and sugar tong splint that aim to obtain maximum functional, clinical, and radiological results There are no clear indications with regard to the best treatment including conservative or surgical methods for the different fracture subtypes in distal radius fracture. The purpose of this prospective randomized study was to compare a new reverse sugar tong splint technique that does not immobilize the elbow with a below-arm cast, in terms of patient radiological and clinical outcomes and the ability to maintain fracture reduction.