BEYOND THE BREAK: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF RECOVERY METRICS POST-MANAGEMENT OF UNSTABLE DISTAL END RADIUS FRACTURES WITH PERCUTANEOUS PINNING VERSUS COLLES’ CAST

Abstract

Background: Unstable distal end radius fractures represent a significant challenge in orthopedic trauma care, demanding effective management strategies to restore anatomical integrity and ensure functional recovery. This study compares the outcomes of closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP) versus Colles’ cast application (CRCI) in treating these fractures, focusing on recovery metrics across different patient demographics. Methods: Conducted at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, this prospective, systematic, randomized comparative study involved 80 patients with unstable distal end radius fractures. Patients were alternately randomized into two groups to receive CRPP or CRCI. Outcome measures included palmar flexion, radial deviation, supination movements, and postoperative functional outcomes assessed using the Mayo Wrist Score. Results: CRPP demonstrated superior outcomes in functional recovery metrics, including palmar flexion (p=0.038 at final follow-up), radial deviation (p=0.001 at final follow-up), and supination (p=0.001 at final follow-up). Additionally, patients treated with CRPP showed significantly better results in the Mayo Wrist Score, indicating enhanced overall functional recovery compared to those managed with CRCI. Conclusion: Closed Reduction and Percutaneous Pinning (CRPP) offers better functional and radiological outcomes in the management of unstable distal end radius fractures compared to Colles’ cast application (CRCI). Despite these findings, treatment selection should be individualized, considering the patient's specific needs and the fracture's characteristics to optimize recovery outcomes.