Removable brace is as good as plaster cast after surgically treated distal radius fracture - a randomised controlled study of pain and wrist function.

研究概要

Sixty patients with distal radius fractures treated by open reduction and volar-plate fixation were randomized to a dorsal plaster cast for two weeks then brace between exercises (n=30) or to a prefabricated stable wrist brace worn continuously for two weeks then between exercises (n=30). The primary outcome was PRWE at 12 weeks; secondary outcomes included pain (NRS) and grip strength (Jamar). Outcomes were assessed at 3 days, 2, 6, and 12 weeks and at ≥1 year. Overall, the results revealed statistical and clinical equivalence between groups for PRWE at 12 weeks and ≥1 year, for pain at all timepoints, and for grip strength at 6 and 12 weeks based on equivalence testing (TOST). Consequently, a removable brace performed as well as a cast for postoperative immobilization after volar plating.