Results The titanium elastic nail for the treatment of proximal radial shaft fractures in adults.

Dr. Arjav Patel; Dr. Dhaval Modi

Volume : VIII, Issue : VIII, August - 2019

Results The titanium elastic nail for the treatment of proximal radial shaft fractures in adults.

Dr. Arjav Patel, Dr. Dhaval Modi

Abstract :

Background: To investigate whether closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) with titanium elastic nails (TENs) is a viable alternative treatment in proximal radial fractures. Methods: In Vadilal Sarabhai General Hospital, Ahmedabad from August 2017 to April 2018, five adult male patients with forearm injuries (average age 43 years; range 35–64 years) were treated for proximal radial shaft fractures. CRIF with TENs for radial shaft fractures was performed in these five patients. Radiographs; range of motions; visual analog scale (VAS); quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (Quick DASH) questionnaire; and time to union were evaluated in our study. Results: Mean follow-up period was 30 months (range 28–36 months). Average time of radius union was 7.3 months (range 6–10 months). Functional outcomes 1 year after operation revealed an average Quick DASH score of 7.92 (range 4.5–25), an average VAS of 1.5 (range 1–3), and average forearm supination and pronation of 69.2� (range 45�–75�) and 82.5� (range 80�–85�). No major complication was noted. Conclusions: CRIF with TEN for adult proximal radial fractures is a method to avoid extensive exposure or nerve injury during ORIF, especially in multiple trauma patients who require short operative time, uremia patients with ipsilateral forearm AV shunt, severe soft tissue swelling due to direct muscle contusion or strong muscularity before surgery, extensive radial fracture, and those in pursuit of cosmetic outcomes.