Functional outcome of distal radius fractures treated with fixation by percutaneous cannulated screw

Background: In the present study primary objectives were to evaluate the clinical and functional outcome and union rates, whereas secondary objective was to study complications associated with closed reduction percutaneous fixation of displaced unstable fractures of distal radius in adults by using cannulated cancellous (CC) screw.Methods: Thirty two patients aged more than 18 years, with unstable displaced distal radial fracture were included in this prospective observational study. Patients were treated by closed reduction and percutaneous fixation by CC screw. Radiological parameters like radial inclination, radial height, ulnar variance, volar tilt were measured. Mayo wrist score and range of motion were noted. Patients were followed up for six months. Continuous variables were compared by using paired and unpaired ‘t’ test.Results: Mean Mayo wrist score at six months post-operative follow-up (82.8) was significantly higher compared to six weeks post-operative follow-up (64.4). Mean early post-operative radial height, mean radial inclination, and mean volar tilt were significantly higher compared to mean six months post-operatively. Mean early post-operative ulnar variance was significantly lower compared to mean six months post-operatively. Mean flexion, mean extension, mean supination, mean pronation, mean radial deviation, and mean ulnar deviation was significantly higher six months post-operative follow-up compared to six week post-operative follow-up. Mean grip strength was significantly higher six months post-operative follow-up compared to six week post-operative follow-up.Conclusions: Clinical and functional outcomes associated with closed reduction and percutaneous fixation by cannulated cancellous screw was excellent. Mayo wrist score was increased over six months follow up period