Distal radial fractures

Summary

Evidence from three randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials indicates that, in older, predominantly female populations there were no differences in either patient-reported or clinician-based outcomes whether distal radial fractures were treated with external fixation (EF) or with cast immobilization. Evidence from one trial suggests that in a younger and predominantly male population, clinician based outcomes may be better for EF compared with casting. Redisplacement was significantly less for EF in two trials, and EF may result in less radial angular deformity and less radial shortening compared with casting. Results should be interpreted cautiously since attrition over long-term follow-up may induce bias and disparities in patient populations may create inhomogeneity between studies.