Comparison between functional outcomes of close reduction versus K-wire fixation in fracture distal end radius

Abstract

Background: Fracture of distal radius usually occurs as a result of high energy trauma in younger individual with good bone density and is associated with substantial articular and periarticular tissue injury. The fracture of distal radius was previously known for being common in elderly with low function demand who sustained a low energy trauma. Purpose of study was to compare the functional and radiological outcomes between percutaneous K-wiring and close reduction with below elbow cast application in treatment of distal end radius fracture. Methodology: 30 cases of closed reduction and casting and 30 cases of percutaneous K-wire fixation were included in the study. The data obtained from the two groups was analysed by using unpaired student’s t-test for continuous variables. All cases were followed up after 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks and were functionally and radiologically assessed for re-displacement. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the range of movement outcomes between the two groups. The unpaired student’s t-test on the values obtained from both groups yielded a P-value of 0.9816. Conclusion: Closed reduction with percutaneous K-wiring and below elbow cast application is a simple, minimally invasive technique that provides additional stability and better radiological outcome in the treatment of extra-articular distal radius fracture as compared to closed reduction and below elbow cast application.