Anatomical & functional outcome of colles' fracture in geriatric population: A prospective study

Abstract

Introduction: Perkins warranted that Colles’ fracture however skill fully treated may leave behind a deformed wrist [1]. As the disability has been attributed to the deformity, therefore obtaining the anatomical reduction has been emphasised. Aim of the study was to evaluate the results of conservative treatments of Colles’ fracture, in terms of radiological and functional outcome, their relationship with each other, and to found out the acceptable measurements of radiological parameters for better functional results. Material & Methods: This prospective study included 50 patients of extra articular Colles’ fracture, was carried out in the Department of Orthopaedic from May 2017 to May 2019. All patients were immbolized with a below elbow cast for 4 weeks and followed up at 3 months and 6 months. Radiological assessment was done by measuring dorsal angulation, loss of radial inclination and loss of radial height as per Stewart et al. and functional assessment was done by criteria by Mayo wrist scores. Results: Excellent and good results was obtained in 72.5% anatomically and 82.5% functionally at 6 months, with a statistically significant association between them. Out of the three anatomical parameter as criteria led by Stewart et al. dorsal angulation < 10 degrees and loss of radial inclination < 9 degrees showed statistically significant association with functional results. But loss radial height < 6 mm did not show statistically significant association. Conclusion: As there was a statistically significant association between the radiological and functional results, therefore obtaining a acceptable anatomical reduction of the fracture is emphasised, and acceptable radiological parameters were, dorsal angulation was < 10 degrees, loss of radial inclination < 9 degrees and loss of radial height was < 4 mm for obtaining excellent or good functional results.