Comparison of Radiographic Results between Three Crossed Pinning and Four-Pin Radioulnar Transfixation Methods in the Treatment of Unstable Distal Radius Fracture

Abstract

A B S T R A C T BACKGROUNDDistal radius fractures are about one-sixth of the total referral fractures to the emergency department. With increase in distal radius fracture cases, especially in Iran, where many cases of trauma are reported, it seems necessary to determine a better treatment for distal radius fracture. This study was designed to compare radiographic results and side effects between three crossed pinning and four-pin radioulnar transfixation methods in the treatment of patients with unstable distal radius fracture. METHODSThis randomized controlled trial study was conducted on the patients, with distal radius facture, aged 18-65 years, who were referred to the Emergency Department of Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Babol, Northern Iran. Patients with a history of bone surgery in the wrists were excluded from the study. Fifty patients were randomly assigned to the two groups of operation: three crossed pinning (n=25) and four-pin radioulnar transfixation (n=25). Radial length, palmar tilt, radial inclination and ulnar variance were evaluated immediately after surgery and at weeks 6, 12 and 24 of surgery. RESULTSNo significant differences were found between the groups in age and gender. Radiographic results between the two groups showed no any significant differences in various follow-ups. Regarding the post-operative side-effects, pain was similar in 4 patients in each group. Also, pin tract infection was observed only in 1 patient in group of four-pin radioulnar transfixation. There were no significant differences between the two surgeries in the complications. CONCLUSIONSBased on the findings, similar outcomes were seen between three crossed pinning and four-pin radioulnar transfixation methods.