Schanz screw fixation in extra-articular distal radius fractures, Hospital Escuela Universitario, Tegucigalpa, Honduras

Abstract

Background: The distal radius fractures are among the most common fractures in the upper extremity, being osteoporotic disease in older women an important risk factor. Objective: To estimate the proportion of cases and to characterize the clinical evolution of patients with extra-articular distal metaphyseal radius fracture treated with Schanz screw fixation, Hospital Escuela Universitario, Tegucigalpa, 2010-2011. Methodology: Descriptive longitudinal study; patients >18 years old with extra-articular distal radius fracture, surgically managed by close reduction and fixation with Schanz screws under an ambulatory protocol. A written informed consent was obtained. Proportion of cases was estimated based on total number of extra-articular fractures and the total number of distal radius fractures. Final functionality was evaluated two months later (The May Wrist Scoring System). Results: A proportion of 30.8% (32/104) was identified. From the total of 21 characterized cases, there were two peaks with greater frequency: 19-30 (33.3%) and >51 years old (47.7%). The distribution by sex was similar, 52.4% (11) men; although in the >51 age group women were predominant, 70% (7/10) post-menopausic. The etiology included 61.9% (13) fall from height, 19.0% (4) traffic accident, 14.3% (3) each one, sport and work. The 61.9% (13) was classified as A2 and 38.1% (8) A3. The residual functionality was Excellent 19% (4), Good 61.9% (13) and Satisfactory 19% (4). Discussion: The functional result among the cases managed with close reduction and fixation with Schanz screws was satisfactory, therefore this management could be considered as an alternative in public hospitals.