Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

AIMS: We conducted a study to determine whether radiological parameters correlate with patient reported functional outcome, health-related quality of life and physical measures of function in patients with a fracture of the distal radius. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The post-operative palmar tilt and ulnar variance at six weeks and 12 months were correlated with the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, and EuroQol scores, grip strength, pinch strength and range of movement at three, six and 12 months for 50 patients (mean age 57 years; 26 to 85) having surgical fixation, with either percutaneous pinning or reconstruction with a volar plate, for a fracture of the distal radius. RESULTS: Radiological parameters were found to correlate poorly with the patient reported outcomes (r = 0.00 to 0.47) and physical measures of function (r = 0.01 to 0.51) at all intervals. CONCLUSION: This study raises concerns about the use of radiological parameters to determine management, and to act as a surrogates for successful treatment, in patients with a fracture of the distal radius. Restoration of 'normal' radiographic parameters may not be necessary to achieve a satisfactory functional outcome for the patient. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:376-82.

Original publication

DOI

10.1302/0301-620X.99B3.35819

Type

Journal article

Journal

Bone joint j

Publication Date

03/2017

Volume

99-B

Pages

376 - 382

Keywords

Grip strength, Pinch strength, Radiological parameters, Range of movement, Adult, Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Disability Evaluation, Female, Fracture Fixation, Internal, Hand Strength, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Patient Reported Outcome Measures, Prospective Studies, Quality of Life, Radiography, Radius Fractures, Range of Motion, Articular, Recovery of Function, Wrist Injuries, Wrist Joint