Fractures of the distal radius in low-demand elderly patients: closed reduction of no value in 53 of 60 wrists.

To determine the value of reduction of fractures of the distal radius in the very elderly and low-demand or demented patient, we assessed 60 fractures in 59 patients for the reduction achieved and maintained. The mean patient age was 82 (65-93) years. All fractures were initially reduced under regional or general anaesthesia. In 44 dorsally displaced fractures, reduction failed in 7 cases initially, and 37 lost reduction during the following weeks of immobilisation in plaster. In 9 wrists with volarly displaced fractures, reduction was achieved in 6; all malunited. A total of 53/60 fractures healed in a malunited position. We found no correlation between fracture classification, initial displacement, and final radiographical outcome. On the basis of these observations we conclude that reduction of fractures of the distal radius is of minimal value in the very old and frail, dependent or demented patient.