Closed reduction with pinning of metaphyseal fractures of the distal radius in children

Abstract

Background Recent studies have shown favorable outcome with closed reduction and pinning for displaced complete fractures of the distal radius in children compared with closed reduction and casting alone, which showed a high rate of redisplacement in addition to complications that develop from extreme positions for maintaining reduction and anxiety developed from remanipulation of fractures. Methods During the period between July 2008 and July 2010, 30 cases of metaphyseal fractures of the distal radius were managed by closed reduction and primary pinning with the application of a forearm cast. Results No case of redisplacement was reported until complete healing, and no major complications were observed. Conclusion It appears that primary pinning for distal radius fractures is a simple and safe method that can be used as an alternative to closed reduction and casting alone in the treatment of displaced metaphyseal fractures of the distal radius in children (from 5 to 12 years), and this study supports previous studies on this method of treatment.