Effectiveness of Immobilization in the Postoperative Analgesia of Surgically Treated Distal Radius Fractures

Effectiveness of Immobilization in the Postoperative Analgesia of Patients With Distal Radius Fracture Treated With Volar Locking Plating: a Prospective, Randomized Clinical Trial

The purpose of this study is to determine wether postoperative immobilization is effective in controlling the pain of patients with intra-articular distal radius fractures treated with volar locking plate fixation. The study hypotheses is that postoperative immobilization does not enhance the analgesia of these patients.

Volar locking plate fixation has been used as the gold standard treatment for intra-articular distal radius fractures. The need for postoperative immobilization after this type of fixation is controversial, with some authors advocating its use for analgesia. Conversely, the use of immobilization might retard the recovery of wrist range of motion and function. The objective of this study is to compare the level of pain and function of patients undergoing surgical fixation of distal radius fractures using or not postoperative immobilization. Patients will be randomly assigned to receive a plaster splint or conventional dressing immediately after the surgery. The main outcome is the level of pain in the first two weeks postoperatively.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Intra-articular distal radius fracture treated with volar locking plate fixation;
• Fracture occurred within the prior 30 days;
• Consent to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Concomitant fracture of the ipsilateral upper limb
• Previous lesion of the ipsilateral upper limb with functional deficit
• Bilateral fracture
• Concomitant neurologic injury
• Patient not amenable to follow-up