Norian SRS versus external fixation in redisplaced distal radial fractures- A randomized study in 40 patients

We compared Norian SRS, an injectable calcium phosphate bone cement, with e xternal fixation in the treatment of redisplaced distal radial fractures by a prospective randomized study in 40 patients (women 50-80 years or men 60 -80 years). After rereduction, the fracture was either stabilized by inject ion of SRS and immobilized with a cast for 2 weeks, or externally fixed wit h Hoffman's bar for 5 weeks. Each patient was evaluated at 2, 5, 7 weeks an d at 3, 6 and 12 months. Functional parameters were grip strength, range of motion and pain. Radiographic parameters were radial angle. ulnar variance and dorsal tilt, The chosen primary effect variable was grip strength at 7 weeks. Patients treated by injection of SRS apatite had better grip streng th, wrist extension and forearm supination at 7 weeks. There was no differe nce in functional parameters at 3 months or later. None of the methods coul d fully stabilize the fracture: radiographs showed a progressive redislocat ion over time. The results indicate that SRS can be used in the treatment o f unstable distal radial fractures. The more rapid recovery of grip strengt h and wrist mobility in the SRS group appears to be due to the shorter immo bilization time.