Outcome evaluation in patients with distal radius fracture.

INTRODUCTION There are not enough scientific papers on the outcome of distal radius fractures evaluated by the patients themselves. There is disagreement over the degree of correlation between the radiological and functional outcome and the disability of the patients. AIM To analyse the correlation between the patient-rated outcome (disability) and radiological parameters of distal radius fractures, as well as the objective parameters of the wrist function (range of motion and grip strength) MATERIAL AND METHODS This is a prospective randomized study of 64 patients with a distal radius fracture. To evaluate the disability a patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) questionnaire was used. For radiographic assessment radial length, radial angle and dorsal angle were measured and graded according the Lidstrom method as modified by Sarmiento. The objective clinical parameters evaluated in this study are grip strength and range of movements. For a description of the association between these three outcome parameters a statistical correlation with the Spearman rank correlation was performed. RESULTS The results of this study showed no significant correlation between the radiological outcome or the range of motion in the injured wrist with the PRWE pain and disability. Only the grip strength was a significant pain and disability predictor three and six months after injury. CONCLUSION Post-fracture rehabilitation and outcome assessment should extend beyond physical impairment and radiography to insure comprehensive treatment to individuals with a distal radius fracture.