Predictors of Functional Outcomes of Nonoperatively Treated Extra-articular Distal End Radius Fractures in Older Individuals: A Prospective Clinical Study

Abstract

Background:

Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are some of the most common injuries suffered by the elderly; however, there are varied opinions on management. As there is limited research on patient factors affecting functional outcomes in conservatively managed patients with DRFs, this study aimed to find predictive factors for functional outcomes in such patients.

Methods:

Patients with DRFs satisfying the inclusion criteria were managed with closed reduction and slab followed by cast application. Radiological parameters (radioulnar angulation, dorsal tilt, radial height, and ulnar variance) and functional scores (patient-rated wrist evaluation [PRWE] score, Short Form 8 questionnaire [SF-8], and QuickDASH [Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand]-9) were recorded prereduction, postreduction, at the time of cast removal, and in follow-up visits. Patient factors such as underlying diseases were also recorded, and correlations were analyzed using appropriate software.

Results:

Patients with diabetes (43.33% of patients) and those with loss in radial height through the course of treatment were found to have poorer functional outcomes (P-values less than .05 for all functional scores—PRWE, QuickDASH-9, SF-8—except SF-8 at 12 weeks). Patients younger than 60 years were also found to have better functional outcomes at 24 weeks (for PRWE: P-value = .048, for QuickDASH-9: P-value = .032, and for SF-8: P-value = .026).

Conclusion:

Conservative management plays a major role in the treatment of DRFs, despite the increasing trend of operative management. Diabetes was found to be a predictor of poorer functional outcomes; however, further research is needed to determine the role of these and other factors in detail.