Distal Radius Research Articles

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.

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 (>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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

Denosumab combined with en bloc resection and arthrodesis for recurrent grade 3 giant cell tumor of bone in distal radius

PurposeThis study aimed to analyse the clinical outcomes of preoperative adjuvant denosumab therapy (PADT) combined with resection and arthrodesis for recurrent grade 3 giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) in the distal radius.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on twenty-three patients (8 males, 15 females) who were treated with the adjuvant denosumab combined with en bloc resection (EBR) and arthrodesis for biopsy confirmed recurrent Campanacci III giant cell tumor of bone in the distal radius between January 2015 and December 2022. All 23 patients were treated with wrist arthrodesis reconstruction using autogenous free iliac crest bone graft (ICBG), bridging plate and screws. The local control, metastasis and overall survival were evaluated during the follow-up period. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score (MSTS-87 and MSTS-93), and grip strength in the follow-up period. Additionally, all surgical or denosumab-related complications that occurred were recorded in this study.ResultsTwenty-three patients were included in this retrospective study and no patients were lost in the follow-up period. The average patient age was 32.5 ± 10.2 years (range, 19–53 years) and the mean follow-up time was 35.5 ± 18.4 months (range, 13–72 months). The average tumor length was 71.7 ± 8.7 mm (range, 50 to 85 mm) and bone reconstruction length was 78.5 ± 8.5 mm (range, 60 to 90 mm). Four patients (17.4%) had secondary local recurrence after reoperation and two patients had (8.7%) multiple recurrences. One patient (4.3%) was deceased in the last follow-up due to multiple metastases. The estimated 5-year recurrence-free survival rate was 81.3% and 5-year metastasis-free survival rate was 95.7%. The mean union time was 8.5 ± 1.9 (6–12) months and the overall survivorship of the allograft was 82.7% (21/23) at an average 35 month follow-up. The average MSTS-87 and MSTS-93 scores were 27.8 ± 1.6 (range, from 23 to 30) and 91.5 ± 5.0 (range, from 76 to 100), and the average DASH score was 8.9 ± 3.2 (range, from 3 to 15), respectively. The average grip strength was 64.6 ± 15.7% (range, from 30 to 95%) of the uninvolved side. Eight patients (34.7%) had at least one complication in the follow-up time. Two autografts (8.7%) were removed due to local recurrence and bone nonunion, and the average autograft survival time was 32.8 ± 18.5 months (range, 12 to 72 months).ConclusionsPreoperative adjuvant denosumab therapy (PADT) combined with en bloc resection and arthrodesis is a promising method for the treatment of recurrent Campanacci III GCTB in distal radius with acceptable short-term local control and functional satisfaction.Level of evidence: level IV Therapeutic.

Ultrasonography of the median nerve before removal of anterior locking plates from the distal radius.

Both forearms of 36 patients who had been treated with an anterior locking plate using the trans-flexor carpi radialis approach for unilateral distal radial fractures were investigated by ultrasonography from the distal end of the radius to 5 cm proximally before plate removal. After fixation of the anterior locking plate, the median nerve was significantly more radially located to the flexor carpi radialis tendon than on the healthy side and showed hypertrophy and flattening at the distal end of the radius. In six cases, the median nerve on the plate side lay radial to the flexor carpi radialis tendon. The median nerve after plate fixation may lie more radially than its original position. Confirming the radial deviation of the median nerve by ultrasonography before removal of the anterior locking plate is useful to prevent the complication of median nerve injury.Level of evidence: IV.

One-bone forearm for the treatment of supination contractures secondary to neonatal brachial plexus injury.

The one-bone forearm procedure has been considered as a potential treatment for severe forearm deformities. However, its primary limitation lies in the elevated risks of nonunion and infection. In order to enhance union rates, a technical modification was introduced, aiming not only to establish end-to-end radio-ulnar fixation but also to incorporate an additional overlay and fixation between the proximal and distal radius osteotomy stumps. This technique, initially applied in a heterogeneous patient population including individuals with neurological, tumoral, and congenital conditions, yielded promising results, achieving a consolidation rate of 100% and enabling supination corrections of up to 120°. In this study, we present a retrospective cohort of 28 patients, with an average age of 9 years, all afflicted by forearm supination contracture exceeding 90° secondary to neonatal brachial plexus injury. These patients underwent treatment with the modified technique. The mean correction achieved in forearm rotation was 116°, and the average follow-up period extended to 43 months. Remarkably, all patients exhibited bone union within an average period of 6.6 weeks, without any complications. Our findings underscore the efficacy of this modified technique, which enables substantial rotational corrections, boasts a high union rate, and maintains a low incidence of complications. This approach is particularly valuable for young patients suffering from neonatal brachial plexus injury with severe fixed supination deformities. IV.

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.

Validation of the Lift-Off Screw Technique in Patients Undergoing Corrective Osteotomy for Malunited Distal Radius Fractures

The purpose of this study was to validate the clinical accuracy of the lift-off screw (LOS) technique for volar tilt correction (VTC) in patients undergoing corrective osteotomy for dorsally angulated distal radius fracture malunions. We conducted a retrospective review of 23 patients with dorsally angulated distal radius fracture malunions treated with corrective osteotomy using the LOS technique. The LOS equation Ls= [tan(Tc) ∗ Lp+ C]/[cos(⍬s)] and standardized intraoperative fluoroscopic images were used to determine and compare the calculated and clinical VTC and final volar tilt. Correlations between the LOS length and the clinical VTC were calculated, as well as between the desired VTC and the correction accuracy. Preoperative volar tilt ranged from-6° to-50° (mean=-22.9° ± 10.6°). The calculated VTC was 32.7° ± 9.4°, and the clinical VTC achieved was 25.8° ± 9.3°. The difference between the clinical and calculated correction was-6.9°, with an average postoperative clinical volar tilt of 2.8° ± 5.7°, compared with a calculated volar tilt of 9.7° ± 4.4°. There was a moderately strong positive correlation between LOS screw length and clinical VTC achieved, and a moderately weak negative correlation between the desired amount of correction and the accuracy of the correction. The LOS technique is a reproducible method to plan the amount of sagittal plane correction during corrective osteotomy surgery for dorsally angulated distal radius fracture malunions. We demonstrate that this technique underestimates the clinical correction achieved by an average of 7°, with larger deformities experiencing greater undercorrection. Undercorrection of volar tilt during corrective osteotomy should be anticipated by surgeons and considered in future implant and cutting guide designs. Therapeutic IV.

Wrist fusion with ulnar translocation for aggressive giant cell tumour of distal end radius: Short-term functional and clinico-radiological outcomes

BackgroundThe distal end radius (DER) is the third most common site of a giant cell tumour (GCT) in bone. GCT is a locally aggressive benign tumour with metastatic potential. The main goals in the management of GCT of DER are the complete removal of the tumours, the prevention of recurrence, and the restoration of the functional wrist. PurposeThis case series reports the clinical and functional outcome of en bloc tumour resection, ulnar translocation and wrist arthrodesis in patients with high-grade GCT of DER. MethodsSixteen patients with Campanacci grade II & III GCT of distal end radius who underwent the procedure between 2009 and 2018 and had a follow-up of 2 years were included. Patients with distant metastasis, chronic severe systemic illness, operated previously, and follow-up dropouts were excluded from the study. The patient's demographic profile and tumour characteristics were collected at the initial visit. Grip strength, modified MAYO wrist score, and VAS score for wrist pain were collected preoperatively and at 1-year and 2-year follow-ups. ResultsThe study included predominantly females (13 vs 3). The mean age was 31.5 ± 8 years with a symptom duration of 6.5 ± 3.1 months (range 3–14). The mean resection length was 8.31 ± 1.5 cm (range 6–12). The mean Ulnoradial and ulnocarpal union time was 22.7 ± 8.0 and 17.5 ± 2.3 weeks, respectively. The mean modified Mayo Wrist score was 20.63 ± 9.4, 48.7 ± 5.6 and 60.6 ± 4.0 at preop, 1 year and 2 years follow-up. The mean MSTS score was 22.68 ± 1.8 (range 19–26). Two patients had ulnoradial nonunion. ConclusionWrist arthrodesis by ulnar translocation and plate fixation is a viable option in the management of GCT of distal end radius. The short-term clinical and functional outcomes are favourable for restoring adequate wrist function.

Comparison of Early Versus Late Debridement Outcomes in the Management of Open Distal Radius Fractures

The optimal timing for surgical treatment of open distal radius fractures remains an area of debate. The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes of open distal radius fractures treated surgically before or after 24 hours. A multicenter retrospective review was performed on all open distal radius fractures treated over 11 years. Patient demographics, injury mechanism, and initial treatment were recorded. Fracture severity was graded by the Gustilo-Anderson classification. Comparisons were made between those treated surgically within and after 24 hours. Outcomes examined included infection, revision surgery, osteomyelitis, and nonunion. A total of 230 cases met the inclusion criteria. The cohorts of early and delayed surgical intervention were similar with regard to preoperative demographics. The most common mechanism of injury was motor vehicle accident. Approximately 40% of cases were graded as type I, 40% as type II, and 20% as type III. Mean time to debridement in the group treated after 24 hours was 5 days. A mean postoperative follow-up of greater than 6 months was obtained in both cohorts. Similar outcomes were found between cohorts with respect to postoperative infection, revision surgery, osteomyelitis, and nonunion. Similar outcomes with regards to infection, revision, osteomyelitis, and nonunion were found between open distal radius fractures treated emergently versus those managed in a delayed fashion. Patient- and injury-specific factors are important in dictating care. Prognostic IIB.

Efficacy and safety of volar locking plate versus cast immobilization for distal radius fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Volar locking plates (VLPs) are increasingly used for distal radius fractures (DRFs), yet their efficacy compared to cast immobilization remains debated. This meta-analysis aimed to compare VLPs versus cast immobilization for DRFs across various follow-up durations. Randomized controlled trials reporting patient-reported functional scores, wrist range of motion (ROM), radiological assessments, and complications were included. Meta-analysis was performed for 6-week, 3-month, 6-month, 12-month, and &gt;12-month follow-ups. Subgroup analysis stratified studies by age group, ≥ 60 years and &lt; 60 years. VLPs showed significantly lower Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores at 6 weeks (p &lt; 0.001), 3 months (p &lt; 0.001), 12 months (p = 0.012), and &gt; 12 months (p &lt; 0.001), and lower PRWE scores at 6 weeks (p &lt; 0.001), 3 months (p = 0.048), and &gt;12 months (p = 0.032). Wrist ROM favored VLPs at 6 weeks (p &lt; 0.05), with higher flexion and supination at 3 months (p = 0.027) and 12 months (p = 0.003). Radiologically, VLPs showed improved parameters at 3- and 12-month follow-up. Overall complications did not significantly differ. Subgroup analysis in patients &lt; 60 years generally supported these findings, while in patients ≥ 60 years, radiological outcomes aligned, yet only lower DASH scores were observed with VLPs at 3 months (p &lt; 0.001). VLPs may offer superior clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes compared to cast immobilization at 3- and 12-month follow-up for patients &lt; 60 years, with comparable safety profiles. For patients ≥ 60 years, VLPs may yield better radiological outcomes at 3- and 12-month follow-up, though clinical benefits remain uncertain.

Volar Locking Plate Fixation for Scaphoid Fractures: Surgical Technique

Scaphoid fractures are the most encountered carpal fracture. Unstable fractures with substantial comminution or bone loss, as well as scaphoid nonunions, may benefit from fixation using volar locking plates. This article presents a surgical technique for open reduction and internal fixation of scaphoid fractures using a volar locking plate and a non-vascularized autogenous cancellous bone graft from the distal radius.

Regional variation in low-value musculoskeletal surgery: a nationwide study from the Finnish Care Register.

Healthcare systems globally are grappling with resource constraints and rising costs. Concerns have been raised about "low-value" care, which consumes healthcare resources without benefiting patients. We aimed to examine regional differences in common low-value musculoskeletal surgeries in Finland and explore explanatory factors behind the variation. Using data from the Finnish Care Register for Health Care, surgeries conducted from 2006-2007 compared with 2020-2021 were analyzed across 20 hospital districts. Selected surgeries (acromioplasty, rotator cuff repair, partial meniscectomy, wrist arthroscopy, ankle arthroscopy, and distal radius fracture fixation) were categorized based on NOMESCO procedure codes, and incidence rates in older populations were calculated based on population size derived from Statistics Finland. We found substantial regional disparities in low-value surgeries. The incidence rates were higher in hospitals with high historical incidence rates and smaller population sizes, suggesting that the uptake of evidence is slower in small non-academic hospitals. The incidence of low-value surgery is declining but regional differences remain large. It is unlikely that regional variation in disease incidence explains such large variation in low-value surgery. Instead, local treatment culture seems to be the driving force behind low-value surgery, and the practices seem to be more entrenched in small hospitals.

Efficacy of N-acetylcysteine in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress to prevent complex regional pain syndrome type 1.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in preventing complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS-1) by reducing proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers in patients with distal radius fractures. A retrospective single-center study at Bursa City Hospital involves patients over 50 years of age with distal radius fractures treated between January 2021 and December 2023. A total of 60 patients (mean age, 62.8 ± 5.1 years; 26 males and 34 females) were analyzed. Patients were divided into 2 groups: the NAC group (31 patients receiving 600-mg NAC daily for 3 months) and the control group (29 patients with no prophylactic medication). CRPS-1 diagnosis was based on Budapest criteria during multiple follow-up visits. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), total oxidant status (TOS), and total antioxidant status (TAS) were measured at baseline and study end point. CRPS-1 positive patients had significantly higher levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1 (P < .001 for all), higher TOS (P < .001) and oxidative stress index (P < .001), and lower TAS (P < .001) compared with CRPS-1 negatives. The incidence of CRPS-1 was significantly lower in the NAC group (9.7%) compared with the control group (31.0%; P = .039). Logistic regression indicated a 78% reduction in CRPS-1 odds ratio with NAC treatment (odds ratio, 0.219 [95% confidence interval, 0.053-0.895]; P = .0322). NAC significantly reduced end-point levels and changes in IL-6 (P < .001), TNF-α (P < .001), and IL-1 (P = .038) and improved oxidative stress markers, showing higher TAS (P < .001), lower TOS (P < .001), and oxidative stress index (P < .001) compared with controls. NAC significantly reduced the risk of developing CRPS-1 by decreasing levels of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. This study highlights NAC's potential as a preventive treatment for CRPS-1 and emphasizes the importance of early intervention.

Functional Outcome of Volar Barton Fracture of Distal End Radius Undergoing Plating

Background: Volar Barton fractures of the distal radius are complex intra-articular injuries that often require surgical intervention for optimal functional recovery. Volar plating is commonly used to achieve stable fixation and early mobilization.Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the functional outcomes and complications in patients with volar Barton fractures of the distal radius treated with volar plating.Methods: This prospective study was conducted from March 2023 to March 2024, including 60 patients aged 18-60 years with AO/ASIF type B3 volar Barton fractures. All patients underwent open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) using a volar locking plate through a modified Henry approach. Postoperative assessments were performed at six months using Gartland and Werley’s wrist score. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 25, with one-way ANOVA applied to evaluate associations between variables, considering a p-value &lt; 0.05 as significant.Results: The average age was 34.43 ± 12.34 years. Excellent functional outcomes were achieved in 61.7% of patients, good in 30%, fair in 6.7%, and poor in 1.7%. Complications were minimal, with 95% of patients reporting none, 3.3% experiencing wound infections, and 1.7% reporting wrist stiffness.Conclusion: Volar plating for volar Barton fractures showed excellent to good functional outcomes in most patients, with minimal complications. Further studies with larger populations are recommended.

Management of Extra-Articular and Intra-Articular Distal Radius Malunion.

This article presents a comprehensive overview of managing extra-articular and intra-articular distal radius malunions (DRM), discussing the pathoanatomy, clinical, and radiologic evaluation, conservative treatment, and surgical strategies. Corrective osteotomy remains the primary surgical intervention for symptomatic DRM. Surgical planning should consider factors such as timing, approach, correction technique, implant, graft, and associated injuries. The correction of extra-articular malunion necessitates brachioradialis tenotomy, circumferential periosteum release, and intrafocal elevation with grafting to facilitate distal radius realignment following osteotomy. Computer-assisted planning with 3D-printed patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) could help execute extra-articular osteotomy with high precision. As for the management of intra-articular malunion, it may require wrist arthrotomy, arthroscopy, or PSI assistance for precise articular osteotomy and reduction of the joint surface. This review highlights the importance of early intervention, thorough preoperative planning, and appropriate surgical techniques to optimize outcomes and minimize complications. Future research should focus on large-scale randomized controlled trials to compare different surgical methods, particularly for intra-articular DRM.