The Comparison of the Results between Single Casting and Splint in the Treatment of displaced Distal Radius Fracture in Pediatrics

Abstract

Background: Distal radius fracture is one of the most prevalent fractures, which there is disagreement about its treatment and it is one of the most controversial issues of pediatric fractures. Methods: In this clinical trial, 152 children with distal radius fractures were randomly treated by the cast or splint based on the random number table. Therapeutic outputs of these patients were evaluated six weeks after treatment. Results: The results of our study show that the mean Mayo Wrist Score in the group under treatment by cast was 92.9 and in the group under treatment by splint were 90.8. Therefore, there was not a considerable difference in the physical function of the patients, statistically. According to Face Pain scale – revised and its achieved score, the two groups did not have a considerable difference from the viewpoint of wrist pain. In addition, statistically, no difference was found in the range of motion of the wrist between two groups. Therefore, the therapeutic output of the fracture without displacement or with minimal displacement of the distal radius by splint is as effective as casting. Conclusions: Considering the results of treatment by splint or cast and in addition the cost of the treatment and the complications of each, splints can be used instead of short arm cast in the fractures without displacement or with minimal displacement of the distal radius in children.