Complications of distal radial fractures: pins and plaster treatment. ³

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Chapman DR. Bennett JB. Bryan WJ. Tullos HS. Journal of Hand Surgery - St Louis. [JC:ia9] 7(5):509-12, 1982 Sep. Recent advances in the treatment of comminuted distal radial fractures has led to the use of pins and plaster, a concept described by many authors. This paper examines whether the use of pins and plaster maintains reduction of distal comminuted radial fractures, and, if so, if it is accomplished with a minimum of complications. With follow-up ranging from 1 month to 1 year following pin removal, 80 consecutive comminuted distal radial fractures treated with pins and plaster were analyzed for change in fracture reduction, associated injuries, and complications incurred during and as a result of the treatment mode. Thirty-three percent of our patients had some complications due to their pins and 16% required reoperation for carpal tunnel syndrome or replacement of loose pins, sequestrectomy, or extended treatment in long arm casts.