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Published in: European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery 2/2017

Open Access 01-04-2017 | Original Article

Classification and treatment of distal radius fractures: a survey among orthopaedic trauma surgeons and residents

Authors: M. A. M. Mulders, D. Rikli, J. C. Goslings, N. W. L. Schep

Published in: European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery | Issue 2/2017

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Abstract

Purpose

Classification, the definition of an acceptable reduction and indications for surgery in distal radius fracture management are still subject of debate. The purpose of this study was to characterise current distal radius fracture management in Europe.

Methods

During the European Congress of Trauma and Emergency Surgery (ECTES) 2015 a 20-question multiple-choice survey was conducted among the attending surgeons and residents of the hand and wrist session. Consensus was defined as more than 50 % identical answers (moderate consensus 50–75 % and high consensus more than 75 %).

Results

A total of 46 surgeons and residents participated in the survey. High consensus was found among both surgeons and residents for defining the AO/OTA classification as the preferred classification system. For the definition of an acceptable reduction, a moderate to high consensus could be determined. Overall, high consensus was found for non-operative treatment instead of operative treatment in dislocated extra- and intra-articular distal radius fractures with an acceptable closed reduction, regardless of age. We found high (surgeons) and moderate (residents) consensus on the statement that an intra-articular gap or step-off ≥2 mm, in patients younger than 65 years, is an absolute indication for ORIF. The same applied for ORIF in dislocated fractures without an acceptable closed reduction in patients younger than 75 years of age.

Conclusion

Current distal radius fracture management in Europe is characterised by a moderate to high consensus on the majority of aspects of fracture management.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Classification and treatment of distal radius fractures: a survey among orthopaedic trauma surgeons and residents
Authors
M. A. M. Mulders
D. Rikli
J. C. Goslings
N. W. L. Schep
Publication date
01-04-2017
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery / Issue 2/2017
Print ISSN: 1863-9933
Electronic ISSN: 1863-9941
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-016-0635-z

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