[Fractures of the distal radius with dorsal displacement: a comparative study of the predictive value of 6 classifications].

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The authors compare six classifications in a prospective study of distal radius fractures surgical treatment. Classifications included Castaing's, Frykman's, Gartland's, Older's, Lindström's and Jenkins'.

MATERIAL

96 patients presenting a distal radius fracture were included in a protocol comparing two surgical treatments. 42 were treated with styloid pinning and immobilization while 54 with intra-focal pinning and immediate mobilization according to Kapandji's technique.

METHODS

Each patient was graded initially according to each six classifications. Patients were reviewed at 6 weeks, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Clinical and radiographical evaluation were performed. Clinical and radiological results were compared according to each group of classification.

RESULTS

None of the six classifications appeared to have any utility to predict functional or radiological results. None was able to distinguish treatment option.

DISCUSSION

The six classifications did not permit to predict clinical or radiological outcome of distal radius fractures treated by radial styloid pinning or Kapandji's technique. All those classifications have been described for conservative treatment rarely performed in France for displaced fractures.

CONCLUSION

The six classifications tested showed no predictive value in K-wire treatment of dorsally displaced distal radius fractures.