Colles' fractures treated by plaster and polyurethane braces: a controlled clinical study.

In a prospective randomized controlled trial polyurethane casts and traditional plaster-of-Paris braces were compared in 46 cases of Colles' fractures of the forearm. Secondary fracture dislocation, subjective inconveniences, and the need for secondary adjustment of the cast were recorded. No significant difference was observed in the two groups. In comparison with plaster the synthetic bandage is lighter, water repellent, and hardens faster, and as far as circular bandages are concerned, they have zippers. It is concluded that polyurethane braces are a good supplement to plaster-of-Paris bandage in such fractures and recommended in selected cases.