Epidemiological profile of articular fractures of distal radius

Abstract

This study was designed to look for the patients demographics, mechanism of injury and fracture characteristics. Methods: Over all 40 cases of articular fractures of the distal radius were reviewed retrospectively. Patients who were treated for these fractures between 2015 and 2017 at a tertiary care academic institution were included in this study. Detailed radiological evaluation of wrist, fore-arm and hand x-rays were done. Results: These patients were more likely (32%, n=13) to be between 30-40 years with a mean age of 39.86 years (range 2164 years). Seventy two percent (n=29) of the study group were males. MVC-Motor vehicle collision is the most common (72%, n=29) cause of this injury, followed by fall on outstretched hand. Frykman type VII and VIII were more frequent (52%, n=21). Complete articular fractures with varying degrees of metaphyseal comminution, (AO- types C2 and C1 =77.5%, n=31) were more common fractures. More than 80% of the fractures were displaced and three-fourth of the fractures were comminuted. Conclusion: Articular fractures of distal radius mainly affects young individuals with male predominance. MVC is the most common cause of injury. Complete articular fractures of the distal radius with displacement and severe comminution (AO type C1 and C2) are most common. Understanding the epidemiology of this fracture can help surgeons to choose the most appropriate treatment strategies for the fracture and preventive measures towards at risk population.