Radiographic Outcome of Unstable Distal Radial Fracture Treated by Closed Reduction and Pin in Plaster

Background: There is controversy about the appropriate treatment for severely displaced and unstable comminuted fracture of distal radius (type C of AO or OTA classification). Recently, there has been an increase in the number of predilection for surgical management of this fracture. Aim: To determine the radiographic outcome in type C fractures of the distal radius treated with closed reduction and pin in plaster. Materials and Methods: Eighty consecutive patients 60 male and 20 female, average age 40 years (22–60 years), with type C fractures of the distal radius seen between February 2001 and July 2003 in Shahid Kamiab Hospital of Mashad University, were treated by closed reduction and pin in plaster, followed up by anteroposterior and lateral radiographs to evaluate radial height, inclination and volar tilt. Results: There was significant improvement in the measurements of radial height, inclination and volar tilt after closed reduction and pin in plaster, and at the time the pins and plaster were removed. (P = 0.00). Conclusion: Closed reduction and pin in plaster is an effective, simple and low cost method in type C fractures of distal radius with satisfactory outcome.