Distal radial fractures

Summary

Evidence from five randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials suggests that percutaneous pinning with casting may be preferred over cast immobilization alone for distal radial fractures, but in most trials, the results failed to reach statistical significance. With regard to anatomic measures and functional scores, pinning appears to have better or similar outcomes compared with casting, and fewer complications with the exception of Kapandji pinning. Outcomes from this technique were similar to casting with regard to functional scores.
Radial shortening was worse for Kapandji pinning and superficial radial nerve damage was more frequent. The results are not conclusive and further rigorously conducted trials, using standardized protocols, would be beneficial.