From the Guidelines
Rigid immobilization is indicated for a patient with a mildly displaced distal ulna and radius fracture.
Details of the Indicated Splint
- The use of a rigid splint is preferred over removable splints for managing displaced distal radius fractures, as suggested by 1.
- Although the recommendation strength is moderate, it is still the preferred option for managing displaced fractures.
- The use of removable splints may be considered for minimally displaced fractures, but the recommendation strength is weak 1.
- In the context of real-life clinical medicine, rigid immobilization is the safer option to ensure proper healing and alignment of the fracture.
- It is essential to note that the type of splint used may vary depending on the specific fracture and patient needs, but rigid immobilization is generally the preferred option for displaced fractures.
From the Research
Type of Splint for Mildly Displaced Distal Ulna and Radius Fracture
- A sugar-tong splint is indicated for a patient with a mildly displaced distal ulna and radius fracture 2, 3.
- The sugar-tong splint is effective in maintaining reduction of pediatric forearm fractures, including those involving both the ulna and radius 3.
- For adults, a nondisplaced or minimally displaced distal radius fracture is initially treated with a sugar-tong splint, followed by a short-arm cast for a minimum of three weeks 2.
- The use of a sugar-tong splint has been compared to other types of splints, such as the Muenster splint, and has been shown to have similar clinical outcomes 4.
- In some cases, open reduction and internal fixation of the radius, combined with closed reduction of the ulna, may be a treatment option for distal forearm fractures 5.