Comparison of hand grip strength in patients with distal radius fracture that are treated by closed reduction with cast versus open reduction and internal fixation

Abstract

Distal radius fracture are one of the most common fractures presenting at emergency rooms. It has bimodal age distribution. Historically, fractures were treated by manipulation and casting with or without K-wire. Modern techniques of JESS fixation and volar plating have been advocated to restore anatomical alignment and allow early mobilization. There is still debate on, which is the best method to manage these fractures. Grip strength is most used as an outcome measure of functional recovery of patients with distal radius fracture of which the most common tool is hand dynamometer. The study was observational study, which aimed to analyse the comparison of hand grip strength in patients with distal radius fractures that were treated by closed reduction and casting to open reduction and internal fixation twelve months post action. The result of this study indicates that the assessment of handgrip from open reduction internal fixation in the case of distal radius fracture with the results of statistical tests (P> 0.05), which mean there is no significant difference in the strength of hand between the internal fixation and casts after twelve months of action. Grip strength was found to be consistent and reliable outcome measure. It was found by evaluation of grip strength that the outcome of close reduction and casting, and open reduction internal fixation of distal radius fracture are equal and comparable.