Radius Fractures Research Articles

Surgical Treatment of Periarticular Distal Radius Fracture in Elderly: A Systematic Review

Background/Objectives: The treatment of periarticular distal radius fractures remains challenging. Different surgical treatment options have been proposed as alternatives to conservative treatment. This systematic review aims to compare the functional outcomes, radiological outcomes, and complications among volar locking plates (VLPs), Kirschner-wire fixations, and external fixations (EFs) for distal radius fractures in patients aged 60 years and older. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane, and Science Direct databases assessing the effects of VLP, EF, and K-wire treatments for distal radius fractures in patients aged 60 years and over. The primary outcome was the evaluation of the range of motion (ROM) degrees after three surgical procedures, trying to assess the best treatment option. The secondary outcome included evaluation of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, quick-DASH score, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, grip strength, radiographic assessment, and complications comparing VLPs, EFs and K-wires. Results: A total of 23 studies were included, comparing VLP, EF, and K-wire fixation. The overall population comprised 5618 patients, with 4690 females and 1015 males, of which 4468 patients were treated with VLP, 503 with EF, and 647 with K-wire. The most common complications among the VLP group were complex regional pain syndrome (7.5%) and carpal tunnel syndrome (6.8%); for the EF group, infections (9.8%) and carpal tunnel syndrome (6.8%); and for the K-wire group, carpal tunnel syndrome (7.5%) and infections (6.9%). Conclusions: VLP showed better clinical outcomes in the first few months after treatment. However, these differences decreased over time and became similar after one year. EF and K-wire fixations remain easier to manage during surgery.

A case report: Surgical Release for De Quervain Syndrome after conservative treatment of distal radius fracture

Objective Describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of De Quervain Syndrome and the result of the surgery for De Quervain Syndrome after conservative treatment of distal radius fracture Subjects and methods A case report. Results De Quervain Syndrome is a condition that involves tendon entrapment affecting the first dorsal compartment of the wrist. It has been reported that De Quervain Syndrome can also develops after distal radius fracture. We report a case that the patient was diagnosed with De Quervain Syndrome after conservative treatment of distal radius fracture. During surgery we noticed that the patient had separated tendon sheaths for abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB). EPB tendon sheath was released and reconstructed to prevent tendon subluxation. After 6 months, patient was feeling no pain and very satisfied. Conclusions De Quervain Syndrome development after distal radius fracture is rare. The successful surgery got the patient came back to work normally.

THE NUMBER OF DISTAL RADIAL FRACTURES IN THE ELDERLY WILL INCREASE BY MORE THAN HALF BY 2040: PREDICTION MODELLING USING NATIONAL DATA

The aim was to predict the number and incidence of distal radius fractures in Scotland over the next two decades according to age group, categorised into under 65yrs(65) and 65yrs and older (65), and estimate the potential increased operative burden.The number of distal radius fractures in Scotland was isolated from the Global Burden of Disease database and this was used, in addition to historic population data and published population estimates, to create a multivariable model allowing incorporation of age group, sex and time. A Negative Binomial distribution was used to predict incidence in 2030 and 2040 and calculate projected number of fractures. A 20.4% operative intervention rate was assumed (local data).In terms of number of fractures, there was a projected 61% rise in the 65 group with an overall increase of 2099 fractures per year from 3417 in 2020 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2960 – 3463) to 5516 in 2040 (95% CI 4155 – 5675). This was associated with 428 additional operative interventions per year for those 65yrs. The projected increase between 2020 and 2040 was similar in both sexes (60% in females, 63% in males), however the absolute increase in fracture number was higher in females. There was a 4% projected fall in the number of fractures in those 65.Incidence of distal radius fractures is expected to considerably increase over the next two decades due to a projected increase in the number of fractures in the elderly. This has implications for associated morbidity and healthcare resource use.

Impact of teardrop angle correction on functional outcomes in die punch fractures of the distal radius: retrospective study

Background: Anatomic reduction of die punch fractures of the distal radius is crucial to optimize functional outcomes. The teardrop angle, formed by the volar cortex and articular surface, reflects distal radius alignment and articular congruity. This study evaluated the relationship between teardrop angle correction and clinical/functional results following surgical fixation of these injuries. Methods: This retrospective study included patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation for die punch distal radius fractures between 2015-2020. Patients were divided into two groups based on teardrop angle correction: group 1 (≤10°) and group 2 (>10°). Disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores, patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) scores, range of motion, and grip strength were assessed at final follow-up (minimum 12 months). Multivariate analysis identified predictors of functional outcomes. Results: 60 patients were included (32 in group 1, 28 in group 2). Groups were similar in baseline demographics and injury characteristics. Group 2 (>10° correction) had significantly better outcomes including lower DASH scores (14.5 versus 24.6, p=0.003), lower PRWE scores (21.6 versus 36.8, p=0.002), greater grip strength (84.6% versus 71.2%, p=0.005), increased flexion (62.5° versus 52.7°, p=0.004), and extension range of motion (55.8° versus 43.5°, p<0.001). On multivariate analysis, greater teardrop angle correction was an independent predictor of improved DASH and PRWE scores. Conclusions: Obtaining >10° of teardrop angle correction during surgical fixation of die punch distal radius fractures correlated with superior functional outcome scores, grip strength, and mobility compared to ≤10° of correction. These findings emphasize the importance of restoring distal radius anatomy and articular congruity in this injury pattern. Precise intraoperative correction of the teardrop angle deformity should be a key goal.

ANALYSIS OF OPEN REDUCTION AND INTERNAL FIXATION (ORIF) IN COLLES' FRACTURE

Colles fracture, first described in 1814, is characterized by the dorsal displacement of the distal radius fragment and is highly prevalent, particularly among elderly patients. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) in treating Colles fractures, focusing on functional outcomes and postoperative quality of life. An integrative literature review and comparative analysis of studies on ORIF and other treatment methods were conducted using Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science as indexing tools. Articles were selected using the keywords “Colles Fracture, Open Reduction and Internal Fixation, Functional Outcomes, Postoperative Complications.” The review highlights that ORIF generally provides superior functional outcomes and fewer complications in various fractures, such as those of the humerus, tibial pilon, calcaneus, and unstable distal radius fractures, compared to less invasive methods like external fixation (EF). However, EF shows advantages in specific cases, such as shorter surgical time and fewer perioperative complications. Moreover, the studies indicate that risk factors like diabetes, fracture severity, lack of drainage, and bone graft usage increase the risk of complications in ORIF. Additionally, minimally invasive techniques can reduce pain and enhance functional recovery in certain fractures, such as patellar fractures, when compared to ORIF.

Surgeon Alignment With Clinical Practice Guidelines: A Qualitative Analysis of Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures.

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are developed to guide physicians in providing consistent high-quality care. Despite availability of evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of distal radius fractures, prior work suggests many patients receive treatment that is misaligned with the CPG. We sought to explore barriers and facilitators of guideline-aligned care for distal radius fractures. We conducted semistructured interviews of a purposive sample of surgeons who treat distal radius fractures. Our interview guide was based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Interviews were transcribed and coded using a deductive analytical approach within the 14 TDF domains. Belief statements underlying similar codes were developed to describe barriers and facilitators of guideline-aligned care. A content analysis was performed to count the frequency of each TDF domain. We interviewed 14 surgeons. The most common TDF domains were beliefs about consequences (110), knowledge (49), and social influences (29). Belief statements representative of barriers of concordance to the CPGs included, "I am more likely to deviate from the CPGs when the CPGs differ from my professional opinion," which was coded under beliefs about consequences. Similar belief statements were created for each theme within TDF domains. Decision-making for patients with distal radius fractures is driven by beliefs about consequences, knowledge, and social influences. Strategies to address these beliefs in other fields such as including patient factors in a further structured shared decision-making process, developing implementation toolkits as part of the CPG development process, and implementing payment programs may improve CPG alignment.

5159 Bone Disease Related To PLS3 Gene Mutation

Abstract Disclosure: S. Saberi: None. N. Esfandiari: None. Background: A variety of genes play a role in the development of osteoporosis. One of these is PLS3, located on the X chromosome. PLS3 gene mutation leads to defective function of the protein Plastin 3. Plastin 3 functions in the binding and bundling of F-actin, a main component of the actin cytoskeleton. In the skeletal system the actin cytoskeleton regulates adaption to gravity and mechanical stress. Dysregulation of this gene is associated with diseases of the bone, including osteoporosis. Clinical Case: A 60-year-old man with a history of hearing loss since age 52, hypothyroidism diagnosed at age 57 presents to the Genetics Clinic after 2 grandsons were diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta. The mothers (his two daughters) of the two grandsons were found to be carriers of the PLS3 gene mutation. Because of their carrier status the patient was screened and a pathogenic partial gene deletion of exons 8 to 16 in the PLS3 gene was detected. The patient has a history of a right wrist fracture at age 16 in a fall from 8 feet height from a ladder, right leg fracture at age 45 when his leg got caught and twisted in a ladder rung, 5 rib fractures and shoulder fracture at age 53 in a fall from 3 feet into a utility hole. A DXA scan showed osteopenia in his left femoral neck (T-score -1.3), normal bone density in his total hip (T score -0.1) and lumbar spine (L1-L4 T-score -0.4). FRAX score for major osteoporotic fracture was 9.4% and hip fracture was 1.2%. Labs for secondary causes of osteoporosis were normal. Due to his gene mutation and fracture history a bisphosphonate was recommended.Clinical Lessons:Obtaining a thorough family history in people with fractures can determine the need for screening for gene mutations associated with osteoporosis. This can identify patients who need more aggressive management. Presentation: 6/2/2024

7172 Osteoporosis Associated with Antiretroviral Therapy - Case report

Abstract Disclosure: C.E. Guillen Lopez: None. L.A. Sanchez Ato: None. A. Patel: None. A. Molkina: None. T. Ayub: None. L. Robles: None. A. Arce Gastelum: None. Osteoporosis presents a substantial public health challenge, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality through fractures. While postmenopausal osteoporosis is common, secondary osteoporosis affects a significant number of patients, including over 30% of postmenopausal and 50-80% of men. People living with HIV (PLWH) experience age-related medical comorbidities earlier and more extensively than those without HIV. The compromised bone health in PLWH is attributed to factors associated with the virus, antiretroviral therapy (ART) side effects, and health disparities such as inadequate nutrition, low body weight, hypogonadism, vitamin D deficiency, and increased recreational substance use. More recently, it has become apparent that vertebral fractures are more common in PLWH, with a prevalence of 11.1% and a 2.30-fold more significant risk than the general population. Low bone mass density (BMD) is twice as common in PLWH, increasing to 3 times as common in PLWH on ART. ART initiation leads to transient bone loss with nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors such as tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and protease inhibitors, causing higher BMD loss. In contrast, integrase and specific reverse-transcriptase inhibitors have minimal adverse effects on BMD. The newer formulation, tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), is believed to have a more favorable impact on bone health than TDF. The repercussions of diminished bone health, particularly osteoporotic fractures, have significant medical and economic implications. They are leading to early mortality, disability, and a loss of independence. The HIV Medicine Association (HIVMA) and Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) recommend BMD screening for all HIV-infected patients at 50 years. 58-year-old male PLWH reveals a history of osteoporosis with multiple spinal (L1, L4-5, S1) and bilateral wrist fractures on TDF for 15 years. The patient has been treated with bisphosphonates. Alendronate was initially prescribed, but due to acid reflux side effects, zoledronic acid was a better option. Despite various ART regimens, Dolutegravir/Lamivudine was started four years ago without further fractures. Recent bone density assessments showed improvement in the lumbar spine, returning to a normal range with a T-score of 0.6. However, the left femoral neck remains at -2.5, and the right femoral neck is at -2.2, showing minimal change. To enhance BMD in PLWH on ART, transitioning to alternatives with lower bone loss associations and using bisphosphonates as tolerated are suggested. As the HIV-infected population ages, proactive screening for low BMD is vital to manage evolving health needs and prevent bone-related complications. A holistic approach includes evaluation for secondary etiologies of osteoporosis, medical treatment, and vitamin D and calcium supplementation. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Pediatric wrist fractures: variations in management across countries. An evidence-based summary of evidence.

Fractures of the distal radius are common in pediatric population, with considerable variation in the management of pediatric wrist fractures across different countries. It is crucial to consider the different approaches to conservative management and surgical intervention. The decision on the appropriate treatment method often depends on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as the available healthcare resources and expertise in each country. This article tries to identify these variations, so the various healthcare systems can work toward implementing best practices in the management of pediatric wrist fractures on a global scale. Published peer-reviewed articles identified in electronic databases, including PubMed Scopus and Google Scholar. The management of pediatric wrist fractures can differ significantly among countries given the high variability in healthcare resources and cultural practices. The management of pediatric wrist fractures can be challenging in certain countries, especially in developing regions with limited resources. Challenges such as long therapeutic delays, lack of appropriate anesthesia, and the absence of fluoroscopy can complicate the treatment process. Randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) are vital in providing high-quality evidence to guide clinical decision-making, especially in the field of pediatric wrist fractures. Efforts to support and prioritize the conduct and dissemination of RCTs in pediatric wrist fracture management can ultimately lead to more consistent, effective, and evidence-based care for children with wrist fractures worldwide.

Comparison of surgical and conservative therapy in older patients with distal radius fracture: a prospective randomized clinic al trial

IntroductionThe distal radius fracture is considered the most common fracture in humans. For fractures classified as Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthese (AO) 23-C1 + C2, there is no consensus on treatment in older patients due to inconsistent study results. The aim of this study was to compare conservative and surgical treatment in relation to wrist function and satisfaction in patients older than 65 years.MethodsIn this prospective randomized clinical trial, patients aged older than 65 years who suffered an isolated AO-classified C1 or C2 distal radius fracture were randomized to surgical treatment using palmar plate osteosynthesis or conservative treatment. Patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) score and disabilities of arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) was assessed 3, 6 and 12 months post-interventionally. Satisfaction, range of motion (ROM) and pain scores were evaluated at 6 weeks and 3, 6 and 12 months post-interventionally.ResultsA total of 80 patients with a mean age of 77.3 years (± 6.1 years) in the conservative group and 72.5 years (± 5.3 years) in the surgery group were included. Both the PRWE score, and the DASH score showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups after 3 months, 6 months and 12 months (p < 0.001). Patients in the surgical cohort showed a statistically significant higher satisfaction at the 6-week, 6-month and 12-month follow-up (p < 0.001 6 weeks + 12 months; p = 0.004 6 months).ConclusionIn this prospective randomized study, surgical treatment proved to be superior to conservative treatment in terms of the primary outcome variable PRWE score. Satisfaction was significantly better in the surgical group.

A Comparison Between Volar Locking Plates and Percutaneous Pinning in the Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures: A Systematic Review

Percutaneous fixation with Kirschner wires and open reduction and internal fixation with volar locking plates are the most common surgical techniques for managing distal radius fractures (DRFs). As the superiority of either technique is yet to be established, we aimed to conduct an updated systematic review to compare these techniques for the optimal management of unstable DRFs. We conducted a comprehensive literature search to identify studies comparing fixation outcomes for DRFs between groups treated with Kirschner wires and those treated with volar locking plates. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool was used to assess the methodological quality of RCTs. Meta-analyses were performed only on outcome measures that were reported at the same time points using the same metrics across three or more RCTs. Evaluated outcomes included the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, grip strength, wrist range of motion, and radiological outcomes. We also assessed the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score and incidence of complications. Fourteen RCTs with 2,226 patients were included in the meta-analysis. DASH scores were significantly lower in the plating group at all time points. PRWE outcomes favored the plating group at follow-ups greater than 1 year. There were no significant differences in radiological outcomes or incidence of complications between the two groups. Although the plating group provided marginally better functional outcomes at 1 year after surgery, the K-wire group remained a viable alternative. The reported differences should be interpreted cautiously because of the inherent variability of the included RCTs. High-quality RCTs with strict inclusion criteria and standard postoperative protocols are essential to generalize our results across all age groups and fracture types to overcome our study's limitations. Therapy/Prevention, Etiology/Harm II.

Ulnar nerve injury following fracture of distal radius: A case report

Ulnar nerve injury following fracture of distal radius: A case report

Wrist &amp; Hand

The October 2024 Wrist &amp; Hand Roundup360 looks at: Circumferential casting versus plaster splinting in preventing redisplacement of distal radial fractures; Comparable outcomes for operative versus nonoperative treatment of scapholunate ligament injuries in distal radius fractures; Perceived pain during the reduction of Colles fracture without anaesthesia; Diagnostic delays and physician training are key to reducing scaphoid fracture nonunion; Necrotizing fasciitis originating in the hand: a systematic review and meta-analysis; Study design influences outcomes in distal radial fracture research; Long-term results of index finger pollicization for congenital thumb anomalies: a systematic review; Enhancing nerve injury diagnosis: the evolving role of imaging and electrodiagnostic tools.

Intrafocal Pinning in Distal Extraarticular Radius Fracture: A Retrospective Study Based on Patient Age

Background: Percutaneous intrafocal pinning is one of the many surgical options for extraarticular distal radius fracture with minimal comminution. This study aims to describe the role and indications of intrafocal pinning. Methods: This monocentric, retrospective study included 49 patients who underwent intrafocal pinning for distal radius fractures in 2013 in our French hand surgery department. All the patients underwent posteroanterior and lateral x-ray on days 2 and 45 to measure radial inclination, distal radioulnar index, and volar tilt. Results: The mean age of the patients was 45.4 years, with women representing approximately 61.2% of the sample (n = 30). The patients were divided into three groups: group A (17–50 y), 26 patients; group B (50–70 y), 15 patients; and group C (&gt;70 y), eight patients. We documented on x-ray images, 21 secondary displacements, including seven in group C. There were three displacements (all in group C) and one surgical revision within 15 days for a previous displacement. The distal radioulnar index increased in all three groups. Conclusions: The percutaneous intrafocal pinning fixation technique exposes a high risk of complications, especially for those older than 50 years, for whom this technique should be avoided. Overall, due to the frequency of secondary displacements encountered, our first-line treatment favors plate osteosynthesis for all patients. Pinning fixation should only be considered with caution in younger patients if plate osteosynthesis is not possible, but it requires a strict 6-week immobilization. The fracture morphology must also be considered.

Long Term Effects Of Covid-19 Pandemic On Management And Outcomes Of Distal Radius Fractures

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term effects of conservative orthopaedic practice during Covid-19 pandemic on management and long-term outcomes. Methods: Current longitudinal retrospective cohort study included patients at a single tertiary care center in India. Successive distal radius fractures of patients in pre-COVID (2018-19), COVID (2020-21) and postCOVID (2022-23) time period groups were treated and analysed. The primary outcome was the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score, and secondary outcomes included wrist range of motion, grip strength and pain. Cohort findings were compared employing Repeated-measures analysis of variance. Results: In pre-COVID group 97(82.4%) patients presented within 3 days of injury which significantly declined to 48(49%) in COVID and 94(71.2%) in post-COVID group. There was a significant reduction in admissions for inpatient care (p&lt;0.05). The mean QuickDASH score at 1 year follow-up was 7.2(8.6) in COVID group that was clinically better than pre-COVID [8.5(9.2)] and post-COVID [9.7 (12.4)] cohorts. The number of reoperations or secondary surgeries required were significantly lower in the COVID group [1 (1%) patient]. Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic had minimal long-term effects on results of distal radius fractures as the conservative treatment approach utilised was realistic and beneficial to patients as well as to the treating surgeons. Timely corrections of arising early treatment complications through efficient virtual clinics/telemedicine kept the prevalence of major late complications minimal. Comparatively minimal complications and prompt recovery were seen in patients being operated by percutaneous Kirschner wires fixation. Categories: Infectious Disease, Orthopaedics, Trauma

Recovery of Comfort and Capability After Upper Extremity Fracture Is Predominantly Associated With Mindset: A Longitudinal Cohort From the United Kingdom

OBJECTIVES: To determine the relative influence of mindset and fracture severity on 9-month recovery trajectories of pain and capability after upper extremity fractures. METHODS: Design: Secondary use of longitudinal data. Setting: Single Level-1 trauma center in Oxford, United Kingdom. Patient selection: English-speaking adults with isolated proximal humerus, elbow, or distal radius fracture managed operatively or nonoperatively were included, and those with multiple fractures or cognitive deficit were excluded. Outcome measures and comparisons: Incapability (Quick-DASH) and pain intensity (11-point rating scale) were measured at baseline, 2–4 weeks, and 6–9 months after injury. Cluster analysis was used to identify statistical groupings of mindset (PROMIS Depression and Anxiety, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, and Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia) and fracture severity (low/moderate/high based on OTA/AO classification). The recovery trajectories of incapability and pain intensity for each mindset grouping were assessed, accounting for various fracture-related aspects. RESULTS: Among 703 included patients (age 59 ± 21 years, 66% women, 16% high-energy injury), 4 statistical groupings with escalating levels of distress and unhelpful thoughts were identified (fracture severity was omitted considering it had no differentiating effect). Groups with less healthy mindset had a worse baseline incapability (group 2: β = 4.1, 3: β = 7.5, and 4: β = 17) and pain intensity (group 3: β = 0.70 and 4: β = 1.4) (P &lt; 0.01). Higher fracture severity (β = 4.5), high-energy injury (β = 4.0), and nerve palsy (β = 8.1) were associated with worse baseline incapability (P &lt; 0.01), and high-energy injury (β = 0.62) and nerve palsy (β = 0.76) with worse baseline pain intensity (P &lt; 0.01). Groups 3 and 4 had a prolonged rate of recovery of incapability (β = 1.3, β = 7.0) and pain intensity (β = 0.19, β = 1.1) (P &lt; 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with higher levels of unhelpful thinking and feelings of distress regarding symptoms experienced worse recovery of pain and incapability, with a higher effect size than fracture location, fracture severity, high-energy injury, and nerve palsy. These findings underline the importance of anticipating and addressing mental health concerns during recovery from injury. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Retrospective Review of Falls in Medical Inpatients Following Introduction of a Falls Proforma at Wexford General Hospital

Abstract Background Inpatient falls are the largest category of preventable inpatient adverse events in hospitals coming at both great financial and safety cost to a healthcare system. Approximately 30% of inpatient falls result in injury, 4-6% resulting in serious injury with older patients have the highest risk of falling and injury. The aim of this retrospective audit cycle was to improve standards of falls assessments performed by junior doctors. Methods We initially conducted a retrospective review of 7 medical inpatient falls in July 2023. Standards were compared against NICE Guidelines on Assessment and Prevention of Falls in older people 2013 and NICE guidelines on Assessment and early management of head injury 2023. 15 key elements were analysed: doctor identifier, date and time, history of fall, confusion, pain, loss of consciousness, amnesia, seizure, vomiting, medication review, hip fracture, wrist fracture, skull fracture, Glasgow Coma Scale and neurological deficit. One point was given for each of the 15 key elements noted in the falls review. Following introduction of a falls proforma, we re-audited 18 falls in February 2024 to analyse differences in scores. Results Prior to proforma introduction, 7 falls reviewed had an average score of 3 points. 4 falls were reviewed by SHOs, 1 each by an SpR and Intern and 1 NCHD review was unidentifiable. Mean age was 72. Following proforma introduction, 18 falls in 13 patients were analysed. 2 patients did not have a falls review, 15 were reviewed by SHOs, 1 by an Intern. Average age was 81. Proforma was used in 7 cases with an average score of 12.7, and no proforma was used in 11 cases with an average score of 5. Conclusion These findings demonstrate improved quality of falls reviews using proformas in line with guidelines compared to those without. More education is needed to incorporate proformas into standard practice.

Are There Missed Opportunities For Falls Prevention In Older People With Fractures? Data From TILDA

Abstract Background Fractures can represent a seminal event in later life associated with significantly higher rates of functional impairment, nursing home admission and mortality. The aim of this study therefore was to measure the cumulative incidence of hip and wrist fractures longitudinally in a population-representative sample of community-dwelling older people and examine opportunities to intervene prior to the fracture. Methods Participants aged ≥65 years from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing were included and followed from Wave 1 to Wave 5 (8-year follow-up). Falls and Fractures (Hip and Wrist) and were elicited by self-report at each wave. Participants were also asked how steady they feel when standing / walking. Logistic regression models assessed the relationship between reported falls and unsteadiness, and subsequent fracture. Results 3,072 participants were included (Mean age 73 years, 53% female) and followed for a median of 6.3 years, with over 7% (228/3,072) reporting a fracture. Over one quarter (69/267) of fractures were preceded by an injurious fall requiring medical attention in the prior 24 months, 45% were preceded by a fall of any type (121/267). One third of participants who subsequently had a fracture (89/267), reported that they were unsteady on their feet when interviewed prior to the fracture. One fifth (19/89) of these participants accessed physiotherapy services prior to the fracture. The combination of either a fall or unsteadiness reported during the preceding 24 months significantly increased the likelihood of future fracture (Odds Ratio 2.62 (95% CI 2.05 – 3.35)). Conclusion Most fractures are predictable with almost two thirds heralded by falls or unsteadiness in the preceding 24 months. Falls prevention strategies, which can reduce further falls by 20-40%, targeted at those with unsteadiness and falls would likely prevent an important proportion of future fractures, and have a positive impact on health outcomes in this cohort.

Clinical effect of rehabilitation after distal radius fracture surgery using a wearable device: A comparative prospective cohort study

BackgroundAppropriate postoperative rehabilitation of distal radius fractures is essential for early recovery and pain management, but may be limited by medical staff and equipment availability and costs. Home- based training or wearable devices provide an alternative. ObjectivesTo assess use of a wearable device and home-based training for rehabilitation after distal radius fracture surgery. DesignProspective comparative cohort study. MethodBetween April and November 2021, patients aged > 20 years with distal radius fracture who could understand and use wearable devices and their application were recruited. Patients with polytrauma, neurological disorder or musculoskeletal disorder were excluded. The control group underwent a regimen of passive and active finger and wrist exercises after surgery, while the experimental group performed equivalent rehabilitation using a wearable device (smart glove).Outcomes comprised pain on visual analog scale, wrist range of motion, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, Modified Mayo Wrist Score, and radiographic parameters (radial inclination, radial height, ulnar variance and volar tilt) at 6 and 12 weeks after surgery. ResultsFracture type, age and gender did not differ between the control (n = 7) and experimental (n = 7) groups. All participants achieved bone union and exhibited equivalent radiographic parameters at follow-up.The experimental group showed significantly improved Mayo scores (65.7 vs. 56.4, p = 0.044), wrist range of motion (259.3 vs. 179.3, p = 0.021), and pain (1.43 vs. 3.29, p = 0.011) at 6 but not 12 weeks’ follow- up. ConclusionsRehabilitation using a smart glove showed better short- term clinical outcomes after surgery than conventional rehabilitation. Rehabilitation using a wearable device may be beneficial for early recovery after distal radius fracture surgery.

Assessing the Impact of Nicotine Dependence on 90-Day Major Complications and 2-Year Hardware Outcomes in Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of the Distal Radius Fracture.

This study aims to assess the impact of nicotine dependence on both 90-day major postoperative outcomes and 2-year implant-related outcomes in patients undergoing open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for distal radius fractures. We queried TriNetX, a national research database that provides real-time access to deidentified medical records, for patients of all ages who underwent an ORIF of the distal radius (Current Procedural Technology codes 25607, 25608, 25609) between 2001 and 2021. Patients were categorized by nicotine dependence history (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision code: F17), with groups 1:1 propensity matched for age, sex, race, ethnicity, body mass index, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The primary analysis examined major postoperative complications within 90 days, while the secondary analysis assessed hardware-related issues within 2 years. Risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals were generated for each outcome. Of 62 137 patients treated with distal radius ORIF, 7764 had nicotine dependence, and 54 373 did not. Each group comprised 7591 patients after 1:1 matching. Nicotine dependence was associated with increased risk of skin infections, sepsis, and wound disruption in the 90-day postoperative period (P < .001). Within the 2-year postoperative period, nicotine dependence was associated with increased risk of mechanical complication of internal fixation device (P < .001), nonunion (P < .01), and surgical intervention for nonunion (P = .009). Nicotine dependence is associated with increased risk of infection, sepsis, wound disruption within 90 days, and hardware complication, nonunion, and nonunion repair at 2 years. These data emphasize the importance of nicotine counseling by treating surgeons.