Comparing Two Surgical Methods for Wrist Fractures
Author Information
Author(s): Matthew L Costa, Juul Achten, Nick R Parsons, Amar Rangan, Richard P Edlin, Jaclyn Brown, Sarah E Lamb
Primary Institution: Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick
Hypothesis
There is no difference in the Patient-Reported Wrist Evaluation following K-wire fixation versus locking-plate fixation for patients with a dorsally-displaced fracture of the distal radius.
Conclusion
The study aims to determine which surgical method leads to better wrist function after one year.
Supporting Evidence
- Fractures of the distal radius are common injuries in adults.
- The study will measure wrist function and quality of life after surgery.
- K-wire fixation is a simpler and cheaper method but has risks of complications.
- Locking-plate fixation allows for quicker wrist mobilization but is more expensive.
Takeaway
This study is looking at two ways to fix broken wrists to see which one helps people use their wrists better after a year.
Methodology
A multi-centre, randomised clinical trial comparing K-wire fixation and locking-plate fixation in 390 adult patients with wrist fractures.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to surgeon preference in surgical technique.
Limitations
The study may have a 10% loss to follow-up, which could affect the results.
Participant Demographics
Adult patients over 18 years old with dorsally displaced wrist fractures.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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