Outcome of distal radial fractures in young adults.

The outcome of 169 fractures of the distal radius in adults under the age of 50 were assessed at least 18 months after injury (mean follow-up, 4.9 years) using a validated, patient-based outcome questionnaire. The questionnaire responses demonstrated that neither the Frykman nor the Mayo classifications of distal radial fractures predicted outcome. Fracture union with more than 10 degrees of dorsal tilt was associated with increased difficulty with everyday activities and work, while union with a step in the radiocarpal articular surface was associated with loss of wrist mobility and difficulty with fine dextrous tasks. No measure of either intra- or extra-articular malunion influenced the severity or frequency of persistent wrist pain.