Below-elbow cast sufficient for treatment of minimally displaced metaphyseal both-bone fractures of the distal forearm in children: long-term results of a randomized controlled multicenter trial

Acta Orthop. 2021 Aug;92(4):468-471. doi: 10.1080/17453674.2021.1889106. Epub 2021 Feb 22.

Abstract

Background and purpose - We have previously shown that children with minimally displaced metaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures, who were treated with a below-elbow cast (BEC) instead of an above-elbow cast (AEC), experienced more comfort, less interference in daily activities, and similar functional outcomes at 7 months' follow-up (FU). This study evaluates outcomes at 7 years' follow-up.Patients and methods - A secondary analysis was performed of the 7 years' follow-up data from our RCT. Primary outcome was loss of forearm rotation compared with the contralateral forearm. Secondary outcomes were patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) consisting of the ABILHAND-kids and the DASH questionnaire, grip strength, radiological assessment, and cosmetic appearance.Results - The mean length of FU was 7.3 years (5.9-8.7). Of the initial 66 children who were included in the RCT, 51 children were evaluated at long-term FU. Loss of forearm rotation and secondary outcomes were similar in the 2 treatment groups.Interpretation - We suggest that children with minimally displaced metaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures should be treated with a below-elbow cast.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Casts, Surgical*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Forearm Injuries / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Treatment Outcome