Adult Closed Distal Radius Fracture Reduction: Does Fluoroscopy Improve Alignment and Reduce Indications for Surgery?

Background: This study compared the radiological outcomes of adult closed distal radius fractures (DRFs) reduction with and without fluoroscopy. We hypothesized that fluoroscopy-assisted reduction would not improve radiographic alignment or decrease the need for surgery. Methods: Hospital medical records and radiographic images of all patients who presented with DRFs between April to June 2009 and April to June 2013 were reviewed. All patients underwent closed reduction and immobilization with or without fluoroscopic assistance. Reduction attempts were noted and pre- and postreduction posteroanterior and lateral radiographs were reviewed for fracture stability. Results: Eighty-four patients underwent reduction without fluoroscopy (group 1), and 90 patients underwent reduction with the aid of fluoroscopy (group 2). According to accepted radiographic guidelines, nonsurgical treatment was indicated for 62% of patients in group 1 and 56% of patients in group 2 (P =.44). In addition, no significant difference between the groups was observed in any postreduction radiographic parameters (P >.53) or postreduction alignment of unstable fractures (P =.47). Conclusions: Reduction without the use of fluoroscopy demonstrated noninferiority when compared with fluoroscopy-assisted reduction in the emergency department for closed adult DRFs.