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Purpose: Early and accurate assessment of distal radius fractures (DRFs) is crucial for optimal prognosis. Identifying fractures likely to lose threshold alignment (instability) in a cast is vital for treatment decisions, yet prediction tools' accuracy and reliability remain challenging. Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), can evaluate radiographic images with high performance. This systematic review aims to summarize studies utilizing CNNs to detect, classify, or predict loss of threshold alignment of DRFs., Methods: A literature search was performed according to the PRISMA. Studies were eligible when the use of AI for the detection, classification, or prediction of loss of threshold alignment was analyzed. Quality assessment was done with a modified version of the methodologic index for non-randomized studies (MINORS)., Results: Of the 576 identified studies, 15 were included. On fracture detection, studies reported sensitivity and specificity ranging from 80 to 99% and 73-100%, respectively; the AUC ranged from 0.87 to 0.99; the accuracy varied from 82 to 99%. The accuracy of fracture classification ranged from 60 to 81% and the AUC from 0.59 to 0.84. No studies focused on predicting loss of thresholds alignement of DRFs., Conclusion: AI models for DRF detection show promising performance, indicating the potential of algorithms to assist clinicians in the assessment of radiographs. In addition, AI models showed similar performance compared to clinicians. No algorithms for predicting the loss of threshold alignment were identified in our literature search despite the clinical relevance of such algorithms., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethical approval: This study was performed at the Trauma Research Unit Department of Surgery, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands and at the Orthopedic Department, the University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Purpose: Direct Discharge protocols (DD) can alleviate strain on healthcare systems by reducing routine outpatient follow-up. These protocols include low-complex musculoskeletal injuries, such as isolated greenstick fractures or torus fractures of the wrist in children. While there is consensus on the effectiveness of DD, there is a lack of injury-specific powered studies. This study compares treatment satisfaction between DD and traditional treatment in children with a greenstick fracture or torus fractures of the wrist., Methods: Children with isolated torus or greenstick fractures of the distal radius or ulna were eligible for inclusion before (pre-DD cohort) and after (DD cohort) the implementation of DD in four hospitals. Traditionally, patients receive a (soft) cast and minimally one routine outpatient follow-up appointment. With DD, patients are discharged directly from the ED after receiving a brace and information, summarized in a smartphone app and a helpline for questions during recovery. The primary outcome was patient or proxy treatment satisfaction (0 to 10), and a power analysis was performed to assess non-inferiority. Secondary outcomes included complications, functional outcomes measured in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Upper Extremity (PROMIS UE), primary healthcare utilisation, and secondary healthcare utilisation (follow-up appointments and imaging)., Results: In total, 274 consecutive children were included to analyse the primary endpoint. Of these, 160 (58%) were male with a median age of 11 years (IQR 8 to 12). Pre-DD and DD treatment satisfaction did not vary statistically significantly for greenstick fractures (p = 0.09) and torus fractures (p = 0.93). No complications were observed. PROMIS UE showed no statistically significant differences before and after implementation of direct discharge protocol for torus (p = 0.99) or greenstick (p = 0.45) fractures. Secondary healthcare utilisation regarding follow-up was significantly lower in the DD-torus cohort compared to the pre-DD torus cohort, with a mean difference (MD) of - 1.00 follow-up appointments (95% Confidence Interval (CI) - 0.92 to - 1.13). Similar results were found in the pre DD-greenstick cohort compared to the pre-DD-greenstick cohort (MD): - 1.17 follow-up appointments, 95% CI - 1.09 to - 1.26)., Conclusion: Direct Discharge is non-inferior to traditional treatment in terms of treatment satisfaction for paediatric patients with greenstick or torus fractures of the wrist compared to children treated with rigid immobilisation and routine follow-up. Furthermore, the results demonstrate no complications, comparable functional outcomes, and a statistically significant reduction of secondary healthcare utilisation, making DD a good solution to cope with strained resources for children with an isolated greenstick fracture or torus fracture of the wrist., Competing Interests: Declarations. Conflict of interest: None of the authors have a conflict of interest to declare for the execution of this study., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: For distal forearm fractures in children, it has been shown that a below-elbow cast is an adequate treatment that overcomes the discomfort of an above-elbow cast and unnecessary immobilization of the elbow. For reduced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures, our previous randomized controlled trial (RCT)-which compared an above-elbow cast with early conversion to a below-elbow cast-revealed no differences in the risk of redisplacement or functional outcomes at short-term follow-up. Although studies with a longer follow-up after diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children are scarce, they are essential, as growth might affect the outcome., Questions/purposes: In this secondary analysis of an earlier RCT, we asked: (1) Does early conversion from an above-elbow to a below-elbow cast in children with reduced, stable diaphyseal forearm fractures result in worse clinical and radiological outcome? (2) Does a malunion result in inferior clinical outcomes at 7.5 years of follow-up?, Methods: In this study, we evaluated children at a minimum of 5 years of follow-up who were included in a previous RCT. The median (range) duration of follow-up was 7.5 years (5.2 to 9.9). The patients for this RCT were included from the emergency departments of four different urban hospitals. Between January 2006 and August 2010, we treated 128 patients for reduced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures. All 128 patients were eligible; 24% (31) were excluded because they were lost before the minimum study follow-up or had incomplete datasets, leaving 76% (97) for secondary analysis. The loss in the follow-up group was comparable to the included population. Eligible patients were invited for secondary functional and radiographic assessment. The primary outcome was the difference in forearm rotation compared with the uninjured contralateral arm. Secondary outcomes were the ABILHAND-kids and QuickDASH questionnaire, loss of flexion and extension of the elbow and wrist compared with the contralateral forearm, JAMAR grip strength ratio, and radiological assessment of residual deformity. The study was not blinded regarding the children, parents, and clinicians., Results: At 7.5-year follow-up, there were no differences in ABILHAND-kids questionnaire score (above-elbow cast: 41 ± 2.4 versus above/below-elbow cast: 41.7 ± 0.7, mean difference -0.7 [95% confidence interval (CI) -1.4 to 0.04]; p = 0.06), QuickDASH (above-elbow cast: 5.8 ± 9.6 versus 2.9 ± 6.0 for above-/below-elbow cast, mean difference 2.9 [95% CI -0.5 to 6.2]; p = 0.92), and grip strength (0.9 ± 0.2 for above-elbow cast versus 1 ± 0.2 for above/below-elbow cast, mean difference -0.04 [95% CI -1 to 0.03]; p = 0.24). Functional outcomes showed no difference (loss of forearm rotation: above-elbow cast 7.9 ± 17.7 versus 4.1 ± 6.9 for above-/below-elbow cast, mean difference 3.8 [95% CI -1.7 to 9.4]; p = 0.47; arc of motion: above-elbow cast 152° ± 21° versus 155° ± 11° for the above/below-elbow cast group, mean difference -2.5 [95% CI -9.3 to -4.4]; p = 0.17; loss of wrist flexion-extension: above-elbow cast group 1.0° ± 5.0° versus 0.6° ± 4.2° for above/below-elbow cast, mean difference 0.4° [95% CI -1.5° to 2.2°]; p = 0.69). The secondary follow-up showed improvement in forearm rotation in both groups compared with the rotation at 7 months. For radiographical analysis, the only difference was in AP ulna (above-elbow cast: 6° ± 3° versus above/below-elbow cast: 5° ± 2°, mean difference 1.8° [0.7° to 3°]; p = 0.003), although this is likely not clinically relevant. There were no differences in the other parameters. Thirteen patients with persistent malunion at 7-month follow-up showed no clinically relevant differences in functional outcomes at 7.5-year follow-up compared with children without malunion. The loss of forearm rotation was 5.5ׄ° ± 9.1° for the malunion group compared with 6.0° ± 13.9° in the no malunion group, with a mean difference of 0.4 (95% CI of -7.5 to 8.4; p = 0.92)., Conclusion: In light of these results, we suggest that surgeons perform an early conversion to a below-elbow cast for reduced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children. This study shows that even in patients with secondary fracture displacement, remodeling occurred. And even in persistent malunion, these patients mostly showed good-to-excellent final results. Future studies, such as a meta-analysis or a large, prospective observational study, would help to establish the influence of skeletal age, sex, and the severity and direction of malunion angulation of both the radius and ulna on clinical result. Furthermore, a similar systematic review could prove beneficial in clarifying the acceptable angulation for pediatric lower extremity fractures., Level of Evidence: Level I, therapeutic study., Competing Interests: Each author certifies that there are no funding or commercial associations (consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc.) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article related to the author or any immediate family members. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research ® editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons.)

Introduction: This study compares computed tomography (CT) with plain radiography in its ability to assess distal radius fracture (DRF) malalignment after closed reduction and cast immobilization., Methods: Malalignment is defined as radiographic fracture alignment beyond threshold values according to the Dutch guideline encompassing angulation, inclination, positive ulnar variance and intra-articular step-off or gap. After identifying 96 patients with correct alignment on initial post-reduction radiographs, we re-assessed alignment on post-reduction CT scans., Results: Significant discrepancies were found between radiographs and CT scans in all measurement parameters. Notably, intra-articular step-off and gap variations on CT scans led to the reclassification of the majority of cases from correct alignment to malalignment. CT scans showed malalignment in 53% of cases, of which 73% underwent surgery., Conclusion: When there is doubt about post-reduction alignment based on radiograph imaging, additional CT scanning often reveals malalignment, primarily due to intra-articular incongruency., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethical approval: Ethical approval to report this case/these cases was obtained from the Medical Ethics Committee of the Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands (MEC-2020–0258). Informed consent: Written informed consent was obtained from all subjects before the study. Conflict of interest: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Aims: It is not clear which type of casting provides the best initial treatment in adults with a distal radial fracture. Given that between 32% and 64% of adequately reduced fractures redisplace during immobilization in a cast, preventing redisplacement and a disabling malunion or secondary surgery is an aim of treatment. In this study, we investigated whether circumferential casting leads to fewer the redisplacement of fewer fractures and better one-year outcomes compared with plaster splinting., Methods: In a pragmatic, open-label, multicentre, two-period cluster-randomized superiority trial, we compared these two types of casting. Recruitment took place in ten hospitals. Eligible patients aged ≥ 18 years with a displaced distal radial fracture, which was acceptably aligned after closed reduction, were included. The primary outcome measure was the rate of redisplacement within five weeks of immobilization. Secondary outcomes were the rate of complaints relating to the cast, clinical outcomes at three months, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) (using the numerical rating scale (NRS), the abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), and Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) scores), and adverse events such as the development of compartment syndrome during one year of follow-up. We used multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression for the analysis of the primary outcome measure., Results: The study included 420 patients. There was no significant difference between the rate of redisplacement of the fracture between the groups: 47% (n = 88) for those treated with a plaster splint and 49% (n = 90) for those treated with a circumferential cast (odds ratio 1.05 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65 to 1.70); p = 0.854). Patients treated in a plaster splint reported significantly more pain than those treated with a circumferential cast, during the first week of treatment (estimated mean NRS 4.7 (95% CI 4.3 to 5.1) vs 4.1 (95% CI 3.7 to 4.4); p = 0.014). The rate of complaints relating to the cast, clinical outcomes and PROMs did not differ significantly between the groups (p > 0.05). Compartment syndrome did not occur., Conclusion: Circumferential casting did not result in a significantly different rate of redisplacement of the fracture compared with the use of a plaster splint. There were comparable outcomes in both groups., Competing Interests: None declared., (© 2024 Barvelink et al.)

Two-dimensional (2-D) plain radiographs may be insufficient for the evaluation of distal radial malunion, as it is a three-dimensional (3-D) deformity. This study introduced a 3-D measuring method that outputs radial inclination, ulnar variance, palmar tilt and axial rotation. To this end, a standardized and clearly defined coordinate system was constructed that allowed 3-D measurements closely resembling the conventional 2-D method in 35 patients. Mean differences between 3-D and 2-D measurements in affected wrists were 1.8° for radial inclination, 0.8 mm for ulnar variance and 3.7° for palmar tilt. In addition, inter- and intra-observer reproducibility of all 3-D and 2-D measurements were good or excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.75), with 3-D reproducibility always better than 2-D. Axial rotation was present in all patients with a mean of 7.9° (SD 6.9). Although the differences between 2-D and 3-D measurements were small, 3-D evaluation enables the assessment of axial rotation and brings us closer to a routine 3-D evaluation of malunion. Level of evidence: III.

Background and Purpose: previous RCT compared short-term results of above-elbow cast (AEC) with early conversion to below-elbow cast (BEC) in children with non-reduced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures. After 7 months both groups had comparable function. Our primary aim was to investigate whether forearm rotation improves or worsens over time. Secondary aims were loss of flexion and extension of the elbow and wrist, patient-reported outcomes measures, grip strength ratio, and radiographic assessment., Patients and Methods: We performed long-term follow-up (FU) of a previous RCT. All patients were invited again for the long-term FU measurements. Primary outcome was limitation of forearm rotation. Secondary outcomes were loss of flexion and extension of the elbow and wrist compared with the contralateral forearm, the ABILHAND-Kids questionnaire and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, grip strength ratio, and radiographic assessment., Results: The mean FU was 7.5 (4.4-9.6) years. Of the initial 47 children, 38 (81%) participated. Rotation improved in both groups over time, with no significant difference in the final forearm rotation: 8° (SD 22) for the AEC group and 8° (SD 15) for the BEC group with a mean difference of 0° (95% confidence interval -13 to 12). Secondary outcomes showed no statistically significant differences. Finally, children < 9 years almost all have full recovery of function., Conclusion: Long-term follow-up showed that loss of forearm rotation after a non-reduced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fracture improved significantly compared with that at 7 months, independent of the initial treatment and children aged < 9 will have almost full recovery of function. This substantiates that the remaining growth behaves like a "friend" at long-term follow-up.

Background: Short-term follow-up studies have shown that reduced metaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children should be treated with K-wires to prevent redisplacement and inferior functional results. Minimum 5-year follow-up studies are limited. Range of motion, patient-reported outcome measures, and radiographic parameters at minimum 5-year follow-up should be evaluated because they could change insights into how to treat pediatric metaphyseal forearm fractures., Questions/purposes: (1) Does K-wire stabilization of reduced metaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children provide better forearm rotation at minimum 5-year follow-up? (2) Do malunions (untreated redisplaced fractures) of reduced metaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children induce worse functional results? (3) Which factors lead to limited forearm rotation at minimum 5-year follow-up?, Methods: We analyzed the extended minimum 5-year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial in which children with a reduced metaphyseal both-bone forearm fracture were randomized to either an above-elbow cast (casting group) or fixation with K-wires and an above-elbow cast (K-wire group). Between January 2006 and December 2010, 128 patients were included in the original randomized controlled trial: 67 in the casting group and 61 in the K-wire group. For the current study, based on an a priori calculation, it was determined that, with an anticipated mean limitation in prosupination (forearm rotation) of 7° ± 7° in the casting group and 3° ± 5° in the K-wire group, a power of 80% and a significance of 0.05, the two groups should consist of 50 patients each. Between January 2014 and May 2016, 82% (105 of 128) of patients were included, with a mean follow-up of 6.8 ± 1.4 years: 54 in the casting group and 51 in the K-wire group. At trauma, patients had a mean age of 9 ± 3 years and had mean angulations of the radius and ulna of 25° ± 14° and 23° ± 18°, respectively. The primary result was limitation in forearm rotation. Secondary outcome measures were radiologic assessment, patient-reported outcome measures (QuickDASH and ABILHAND-kids), handgrip strength, and VAS score for cosmetic appearance. Assessments were performed by the first author (unblinded). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze which factors led to a clinically relevant limitation in forearm rotation., Results: There was a mean limitation in forearm rotation of 5° ± 11° in the casting group and 5° ± 8° in the K-wire group, with a mean difference of 0.3° (95% CI -3° to 4°; p = 0.86). Malunions occurred more often in the casting group than in the K-wire group: 19% (13 of 67) versus 7% (4 of 61) with an odds ratio of 0.22 for K-wiring (95% CI 0.06 to 0.80; p = 0.02). In patients in whom a malunion occurred (malunion group), there was a mean limitation in forearm rotation of 6° ± 16° versus 5° ± 9° in patients who did not have a malunion (acceptable alignment group), with a mean difference 0.8° (95% CI -5° to 7°; p = 0.87). Factors associated with a limited forearm rotation ≥ 20° were a malunion after above-elbow casting (OR 5.2 [95% CI 1.0 to 27]; p = 0.045) and a refracture (OR 7.1 [95% CI 1.4 to 37]; p = 0.02)., Conclusion: At a minimum of 5 years after injury, in children with a reduced metaphyseal both-bone forearm fracture, there were no differences in forearm rotation, patient-reported outcome measures, or radiographic parameters between patients treated with only an above-elbow cast compared with those treated with additional K-wire fixation. Redisplacements occurred more often if treated by an above-elbow cast alone. If fracture redisplacement is not treated promptly, this leads to a malunion, which is a risk factor for a clinically relevant (≥ 20°) limitation in forearm rotation at minimum 5-year follow-up. Children with metaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures can be treated with closed reduction and casting without additional K-wire fixation. Nevertheless, a clinician should inform parents and patient about the high risk of fracture redisplacement (and therefore malunion), with risk for limited forearm rotation if left untreated. Weekly radiographic monitoring is essential. If redisplacement occurs, remanipulation and fixation with K-wires should be considered based on gender, age, and direction of angulation. Future research is required to establish the influence of (skeletal) age, gender, and the direction of malunion angulation on clinical outcome., Level of Evidence: Level I, therapeutic study., Competing Interests: Each author certifies that there are no funding or commercial associations (consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc.) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article related to the author or any immediate family members. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research® editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request., (Copyright © 2021 by the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons.)

Closed treatment of paediatric diaphyseal forearm fractures carries the risk of re-displacement, which can lead to symptomatic malunions. This is because growth will not correct angulation deformity as it does in metaphyseal fractures. The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to evaluate the outcomes after 3-D-planned corrective osteotomy with patient-specific surgical guides for paediatric malunited forearm fractures causing impaired pro-supination. Our primary outcome measure was the gain in pro-supination at 12 months follow-up. Fifteen patients with a mean age at trauma of 9.6 years and time until osteotomy of 5.9 years were included. Preoperatively, patients displayed a mean pro-supination of 67° corresponding to 44% of the contralateral forearm. At final follow-up, this improved to 128°, achieving 85% of the contralateral side. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that predictors of greater functional gain after 3-D corrective osteotomy are severe preoperative impairment in pro-supination, shorter interval until 3-D corrective osteotomy and greater angulation of the radius. Level of evidence: III.

Background: This study evaluates whether a circumferential cast compared to a plaster splint leads to less fracture redisplacement in reduced extra-articular distal radius fractures (DRFs)., Methods: This retrospective multicentre study was performed in four hospitals (two teaching hospitals and two academic hospitals). Adult patients with a displaced extra-articular DRF, treated with closed reduction, were included. Patients were included from a 5-year period (January 2012-January 2017). According to the hospital protocol, fractures were immobilized with a below elbow circumferential cast (CC) or a plaster splint (PS). The primary outcome concerned the difference in the occurrence of fracture redisplacement at one-week follow-up., Results: A total of 500 patients were included in this study (PS n = 184, CC n = 316). At one-week follow-up, fracture redisplacement occurred in 52 patients (17%) treated with a CC compared to 53 patients (29%) treated with a PS. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.001)., Conclusion: This study suggests that treatment of reduced DRFs with a circumferential cast might cause less fracture redisplacement at 1-week follow-up compared to treatment with a plaster splint. Level of Evidence Level III, Retrospective study., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Background: There is no consensus concerning the optimal casting technique for displaced distal radius fractures (DRFs) following closed reduction. This study evaluates whether a splint or a circumferential cast is most optimal to prevent fracture redisplacement in adult patients with a reduced DRF. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of both cast types will be calculated., Methods/design: This multicenter cluster randomized controlled trial will compare initial immobilization with a circumferential below-elbow cast versus a below-elbow plaster splint in reduced DRFs. Randomization will take place on hospital-level (cluster, n = 10) with a cross-over point halfway the inclusion of the needed number of patients per hospital. Inclusion criteria comprise adult patients (≥ 18 years) with a primary displaced DRF which is treated conservatively after closed reduction. Multiple trauma patients (Injury Severity Score ≥ 16), concomitant ulnar fractures (except styloid process fractures) and patients with concomitant injury on the ipsilateral arm or inability to complete study forms will be excluded. Primary study outcome is fracture redisplacement of the initial reduced DRF. Secondary outcomes are patient-reported outcomes assessed with the Disability Arm Shoulder Hand score (DASH) and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation score (PRWE), comfort of the cast, quality of life assessed with the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire, analgesics use, cost-effectiveness and (serious) adverse events occurence. In total, 560 patients will be included and followed for 1 year. The estimated time required for inclusion will be 18 months., Discussion: The CAST study will provide evidence whether the type of cast immobilization is of influence on fracture redisplacement in distal radius fractures. Extensive follow-up during one year concerning radiographic, functional and patient reported outcomes will give a broad view on DRF recovery., Trial Registration: Registered in the Dutch Trial Registry on January 14th 2020. Registration number: NL8311 .

Background: Last decades there is an increased tendency of performing surgery on displaced distal radius fractures. However, it is unclear whether this affects the development of osteoarthritis. This study aims to determine the relation between anatomical position, radiological osteoarthritis and functional outcome of the elderly wrist, 10-15 years after a distal radius fracture., Patients and Methods: 173 patients between the age of 50 and 70 at time of trauma were included in this retrospective cohort study with a 10-15-year follow-up. Based on the reassessed initial X-rays, the patients were placed into 4 groups (1: anatomical, 2a: acceptable, 2b: current operative indication but treated conservative, 2c: operative indication and operated). Functional outcome was measured, questionnaires were answered, and new bilateral X-rays of the wrist were obtained. Factors influencing osteoarthritis, the difference in osteoarthritis between the groups and the difference between the fractured and non-fractured wrists were studied., Results: Group 2b showed a significantly higher degree of osteoarthritis in comparison with the contralateral wrist. In the other groups, this difference was not observed. We found no significant difference in OA and functional outcomes between the groups. The degree of osteoarthritis of the non-fractured wrist appeared to be highly associated with osteoarthritis of the fractured wrist., Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the degree of radiocarpal osteoarthritis is higher in conservatively treated patients that should have been operated on according to current guidelines in comparison with patients without an indication for surgery. This might suggest that our current guidelines can be effective in prevention of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. However, the effect on the functional outcome is very limited. Since the degree of radiocarpal osteoarthritis of the non-fractured wrist appeared to be highly associated with the degree of osteoarthritis of the fractured wrist, future studies should always assess osteoarthritis of both wrists in order to study the real posttraumatic effect of a fracture.

Introduction: Treatment of distal radius fractures (DRFs) aims to restore anatomic position of the fracture fragments and congruity of the articular surface to optimise functional outcomes and prevent osteoarthritis in the long term. While ligament injury of the wrist is often associated with DRFs and sole ligament injuries of the wrist lead to osteoarthritis, it is plausible that concomitant ligament injury in DRFs may aggravate degenerative changes of the wrist. The relationship between concomitant ligament injury and post-traumatic osteoarthritis in patients with DRFs is unclear. This study aims to identify the types of associated ligament injury in patients with a DRF and to elucidate the association of ligament injury on the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis., Methods and Analysis: This protocol is written in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol (PRISMA-P) guidelines. An electronic search in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Trials and Google Scholar has been created and performed by a Health Sciences librarian with expertise in systematic review searching. Original research articles in English literature, which report on concomitant ligament injury of the wrist in relation to post-traumatic osteoarthritis, patient-reported outcome measures or clinician-reported outcome measures in patients (aged ≥18 years) with DRFs will be included. Two reviewers will independently screen and appraise articles and perform data extraction. In case of any disagreements, a third reviewer will be consulted. A systematic qualitative synthesis will be performed using text and tables., Ethics and Dissemination: No ethical approval is required, since this is a protocol for a systematic review. The systematic review will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal and for presentation at relevant conferences., Prospero Registration Number: CRD42020165007., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2020. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

The aim of this study was to determine the difference in functional outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with and without arthroscopic debridement in adults with displaced intra-articular distal radius fractures. In this multicentre trial, 50 patients were randomized between ORIF with or without arthroscopic debridement. The primary outcome measure was the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score. Secondary outcome measures were Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, pain scores, range of wrist motion, grip strength, and complications. Median PRWE was worse for the intervention group at 3 months and was equal for both groups at 12 months. The secondary outcome measures did not show consistent patterns of differences at different time-points of follow-up. We conclude that patients treated with additional arthroscopy to remove intra-articular hematoma and debris did not have better outcomes than those treated with ORIF alone. We therefore do not recommend arthroscopy for removal of hematoma and debris when surgically fixing distal radius fractures. Level of evidence: I.

Background: In the past several years, an increase in open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for intra-articular distal radius fractures has been observed. This technique leads to a quicker recovery of function compared to non-operative treatment. However, some patients continue to have a painful and stiff wrist postoperatively. Arthroscopically assisted removal of intra-articular fracture haematoma and debris may improve the functional outcomes following operative treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures. The purpose of this randomised controlled trial is to determine the difference in functional outcome, assessed with the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score, after ORIF with and without an additional wrist arthroscopy in adult patients with displaced complete articular distal radius fractures., Methods: In this multicentre trial, adult patients with a displaced complete articular distal radius fracture are randomised between ORIF with an additional wrist arthroscopy to remove fracture haematoma and debris (intervention group) and conventional fluoroscopic-assisted ORIF (control group). The primary outcome is functional outcome assessed with the PRWE score after three months. Secondary outcomes are wrist function assessed with the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, postoperative pain, range of motion, grip strength, complications and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, in the intervention group, the quality of reduction, associated ligamentous injuries and cartilage damage will be assessed. A total of 50 patients will be included in this study., Discussion: Although ORIF of intra-articular distal radius fractures leads to a quicker resume of function compared to non-operative treatment, some patients continue to have a painful and stiff wrist postoperatively. We hypothesise that, due to the removal of fracture haematoma and debris by an additional arthroscopy, functional outcomes will be better compared to the non-arthroscopically treated group., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02660515 . Registered on 13 January 2016.

The aim of this study was to identify predictors of a superior functional outcome after corrective osteotomy for paediatric malunited radius and both-bone forearm fractures. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data, searching databases up to 1 October 2016. Our primary outcome was the gain in pronosupination seen after corrective osteotomy. Individual participant data of 11 cohort studies were included, concerning 71 participants with a median age of 11 years at trauma. Corrective osteotomy was performed after a median of 12 months after trauma, leading to a mean gain of 77° in pronosupination after a median follow-up of 29 months. Analysis of variance and multiple regression analysis revealed that predictors of superior functional outcome after corrective osteotomy are: an interval between trauma and corrective osteotomy of less than 1 year, an angular deformity of greater than 20° and the use of three-dimensional computer-assisted techniques., Level of Evidence: II.

Background: Treatment of displaced paediatric distal forearm fractures is not always successful. Re-occurrence of angular deformity is a frequent complication. No consensus exists when to perform secondary manipulations. The purpose of this study was to analyse the long-term outcome of re-angulated paediatric forearm fractures to determine if re-manipulations can be avoided., Methods: Children who underwent closed reduction for distal forearm fractures and presented with re-angulation at follow-up were included in this retrospective cohort study. We compared those that were re-manipulated to those managed conservatively. Re-angulation was defined as ≥15° of angulation on either the AP or lateral view. Children were reviewed after 1-8 years post injury. Outcome measures were residual angulation on radiographs, active range of motion, grip strength, Visual Analogue Scales (satisfaction, cosmetics and pain) and the ABILHANDS-kids questionnaire., Results: Sixty-six children (mean age of 9.6 years) were included. Twenty-four fractures were re-manipulated and 42 fractures had been left to heal in angulated position. At time of re-angulation, children <12 years in the conservative group had similar angulations to those re-manipulated. Children ≥12 years in the re-manipulation group had significantly greater angulations than children in the conservative group. At final follow-up, after a mean of 4.0 years, near anatomical alignment was seen on radiographs in all patients. Functional outcome was predominantly excellent. There was no significant difference in functional, subjective or radiological outcomes between treatment groups., Conclusion: Re-manipulation of distal forearm fractures in children <12 years did not improve outcomes, deeming re-manipulations unnecessary. Children ≥12 years in the conservative group achieved satisfactory outcomes despite re-angulations exceeding current guidelines. Based on observed remodelling, we now accept up to 30° angulation in children <9 years; 25° angulation in children aged 9-<12; 20° angulation in children ≥12 years, when re-angulation occurs. We conclude that clinicians should be more reluctant to perform re-manipulations.

Introduction: Both-bone forearm fractures in children frequently result in a limitation of pronation/supination, which hinders daily activities. The purpose of this prospective multicentre study was to investigate which clinical factors are related to the limitation of pronation/supination in children with a both-bone forearm fracture., Methods: In four Dutch hospitals, consecutive children (<16 years) who sustained a both-bone forearm fracture were included. Children were followed up for 6-9 months and data from questionnaires, physical examination and X-rays were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the relationship between limitation of pronation/supination (≥20°) and several clinical factors., Results: A group of 410 children with both-bone forearm fractures were included, of which 10 children missed the final examination (follow-up rate of 97.6%). We found that a re-fracture (odds ratio (OR) 11.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2; 118.5), a fracture in the diaphysis (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4; 7.9) and less physiotherapy during follow-up (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.82; 0.98) were independently associated with a limitation of pronation/supination of 20° or more., Conclusions: These findings imply that a re-fracture and a diaphyseal located fracture were associated independently of each other with a limitation of pronation/supination in children with a both-bone forearm fracture. Furthermore, in children with severe limitation extensive physiotherapy is associated with better functional outcome., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Although both-bone forearm fractures in children may result in severe limitation of forearm rotation, finding the cause remains a diagnostic challenge. This study tries to evaluate the role of rotational malunion, bony impingement and contractures of the interosseous membrane., Patients and Methods: Children (5-16 years) who suffered from a both-bone forearm fracture in diaphysis or distal metaphysis with a limitation of pronation/supination ≥40° at ≥6 months after trauma were included for analysis with conventional radiographs, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)., Results: A total of 410 children with a both-bone forearm fracture were prospectively followed in four Dutch hospitals. At a median of 205 days, 7.3 % suffered from a limitation of pronation/supination ≥40°. 14 children were included (median limitation of 40°) and the radiographs revealed a median maximum angular malunion of 16°. CT analysis showed rotational malunion of both radius (median 19°) and ulna (median 9°). MRI analysis revealed neither bony impingement nor contractures of the interosseous membrane., Conclusions: Three-dimensional imaging of children with a severe limitation of pronation/supination after a both-bone forearm fracture revealed rotational malunions of both radius and ulna without bony impingement or soft tissue contractures., Level of Evidence: Prospective multicenter study, Level 2.

Introduction: This multicentre randomised controlled trial was designed to explore whether 6 weeks above-elbow cast (AEC) or 3 weeks AEC followed by 3 weeks below-elbow cast (BEC) cause similar limitation of pronation and supination in non-reduced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children., Materials and Methods: Children were randomly allocated to 6 weeks AEC or to 3 weeks AEC followed by 3 weeks BEC. The primary outcome was limitation of pronation and supination after 6 months. The secondary outcomes were re-displacement of the fracture, complication rate, limitation of flexion and extension of wrist and elbow, cast comfort, cosmetics, complaints in daily life and assessment of radiographs., Results: A group of 23 children was treated with 6 weeks AEC and 24 children with 3 weeks AEC and 3 weeks BEC. The follow-up rate was 98 % with a mean follow-up of 7.0 months. The mean limitation of pronation and supination was 23.3 ± 22.0 for children treated with AEC and 18.0 ± 16.9 for children treated with AEC and BEC. The other study outcomes were similar in both groups., Conclusions: Early conversion to BEC is safe in the treatment of non-reduced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children., Level of Evidence: Multicentre randomised controlled trial, Level II.

Background: It is unclear whether it is safe to convert above-elbow cast (AEC) to below-elbow cast (BEC) in a child who has sustained a displaced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fracture that is stable after reduction. In this multicenter study, we wanted to answer the question: does early conversion to BEC cause similar forearm rotation to that after treatment with AEC alone?, Children and Methods: Children were randomly allocated to 6 weeks of AEC, or 3 weeks of AEC followed by 3 weeks of BEC. The primary outcome was limitation of pronation/supination after 6 months. The secondary outcomes were re-displacement of the fracture, limitation of flexion/extension of the wrist and elbow, complication rate, cast comfort, complaints in daily life, and cosmetics of the fractured arm., Results: 62 children were treated with 6 weeks of AEC, and 65 children were treated with 3 weeks of AEC plus 3 weeks of BEC. The follow-up rate was 60/62 and 64/65, respectively with a mean time of 6.9 (4.7-13) months. The limitation of pronation/supination was similar in both groups (18 degrees for the AEC group and 11 degrees for the AEC/BEC group). The secondary outcomes were similar in both groups, with the exception of cast comfort, which was in favor of the AEC/BEC group., Interpretation: Early conversion to BEC cast is safe and results in greater cast comfort.

Forearm fractures in children have a tendency to displace in a cast leading to malunion with reduced functional and cosmetic results. In order to identify risk factors for displacement, a total of 247 conservatively treated fractures of the forearm in 246 children with a mean age of 7.3 years (sd 3.2; 0.9 to 14.9) were included in a prospective multicentre study. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess risk factors for displacement of reduced or non-reduced fractures in the cast. Displacement occurred in 73 patients (29.6%), of which 65 (89.0%) were in above-elbow casts. The mean time between the injury and displacement was 22.7 days (0 to 59). The independent factors found to significantly increase the risk of displacement were a fracture of the non-dominant arm (p = 0.024), a complete fracture (p = 0.040), a fracture with translation of the ulna on lateral radiographs (p = 0.014) and shortening of the fracture (p = 0.019). Fractures of both forearm bones in children have a strong tendency to displace even in an above-elbow cast. Severe fractures of the non-dominant arm are at highest risk for displacement. Radiographs at set times during treatment might identify early displacement, which should be treated before malunion occurs, especially in older children with less potential for remodelling.

Introduction: Displaced metaphyseal both-bone fractures of the distal forearm are generally reduced and stabilised by an above-elbow cast (AEC) with or without additional pinning. The purpose of this study was to find out if re-displacement of a reduced stable metaphyseal both-bone fracture of the distal forearm in a child could be prevented by stabilisation with Kirschner wires., Methods: Consecutive children aged <16 years with a displaced metaphyseal both-bone fracture of the distal forearm (n = 128) that was stable after reduction were randomised to AEC with or without percutaneous fixation with Kirschner wires. The primary outcome was re-displacement of the fracture., Results: A total of 67 children were allocated to fracture reduction and AEC and 61 to reduction of the fracture, fixation with Kirschner wires and AEC. The follow-up rate was 96% with a mean follow-up of 7.1 months. Fractures treated with additional pinning showed less re-displacement (8% vs. 45%), less limitation of pronation and supination (mean limitation 6.9 (± 9.4)° vs. 14.3 (± 13.6)°) but more complications (14 vs. 1)., Conclusions: Pinning of apparent stable both-bone fractures of the distal forearm in children might reduce fracture re-displacement. The frequently seen complications of pinning might be reduced by a proper surgical technique., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Minimally displaced metaphyseal both-bone fractures of the distal forearm in children are often treated with an above-elbow cast (AEC). Treatment with a below-elbow cast (BEC) could give more comfort, but might lead to fracture displacement reducing pronation and supination. Because this has not been systematically investigated, we set up a randomised multicentre study. The purpose of this study was to find out whether BEC causes equal limitation of pronation and supination but with higher comfort level, compared with AEC., Patients and Methods: In four hospitals, consecutive children aged<16 (mean 7.1) years with a minimally displaced metaphyseal both-bone fracture of the distal forearm were randomised to 4 weeks BEC (n=35) or 4 weeks AEC (n=31). Primary outcome was limitation of pronation and supination 6 months after initial trauma. The secondary outcomes were cast comfort, limitation of flexion/extension of wrist/elbow, complications, cosmetics, complaints, and radiological assessment., Results: A group of 35 children received BEC and 31 children received AEC. All children attended for the final examination at a mean follow-up of 7.0 months (range 5.0-11.6 months). Limitation of pronation and supination 6 months after initial trauma showed no significant difference between the two groups [4.4° (± 5.8) for BEC and 5.8° (± 9.8) for AEC]. Children treated with BEC had significantly higher cast comfort on a visual analogue scale [5.6 (± 2.7) vs. 8.4 (± 1.4)] and needed significantly less help with dressing (8.2 days vs. 15.1 days). Six complications occurred in the BEC group and 14 in the AEC group. Other secondary outcomes were similar between the two groups., Conclusions: Children with minimally displaced metaphyseal both-bone fractures of the distal forearm should be treated with a below-elbow cast., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)