Results of treatment of distal radius fractures with DTSaM

Abstract

【Introduction】After a fracture of the distal radius, pain and dysfunction are present. Therefore, it can be said that it is necessary to improve the range of motion as soon as possible to prevent further pain or dysfunction.This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of this splint's treatment period and motor function in patients with distal radius fractures.

【Methods】In 11 cases and 12 hands diagnosed with distal radius fracture, a Dynamic Traction Splint by Artificial Muscle (DTSaM) was allowed to be worn for 6 weeks, and the range of motion of wrist flexion and dorsiflexion, forearm pronation and supination was measured every 2 weeks. The angle was evaluated. Furthermore, the function of the wrist joint was evaluated using The Mayo Modified Wrist‐scores (MMWS).

【Results】As a result of the evaluation, there was a significant improvement in the palmar flexion direction after 4 weeks compared to the first time and in the dorsiflexion direction after 2 weeks compared to the first time. In the supination direction, there was a significant improvement after 4 weeks compared to the first time and in the pronation direction after 2 weeks compared to the first time. there was a significant improvement after 2 weeks compared to the first time.

【Conclusion】Furthermore, in MMWS, the total average was 86.3±7.7 points, suggesting that wearing DTSaM may increase the momentum of the flexor carpi radialis and obtain a traction effect. Therefore, it was suggested that DTSaM might be an effective sprint for preventing the appearance of wrist contracture and improving the range of motion at an early stage.