COMPLICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH CASTING OF ACUTE DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURES IN ADULTS - A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Aim: Closed treatment of distal radius fractures is still a controversy. In children, circumferential casting acute found to be safe. However, research lacking demonstrate its safety in adults. The purpose this study was assess the risk complications associated with adult patients. Methods: Study conducted 60 patients fracture arriving at Emergency department Govt Theni Medical College. Patients were evaluated red zone and provisionally immobilized plaster Paris casts. followed for minimum 12 weeks. Complication rates recorded, including displacement, tenosynovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome malunion. Results: included study. A total 45 met inclusion criteria placement short arm cast Department. majority sustained their injuries from ground level fall. minority had radiographic evidence intra-articular extension or underwent reduction prior casting. did not require change. data analysis showed such as malunion insignificant value closed proved safest benefitted method management lesser complications. Conclusion: There no major acute, series While further studies larger numbers are necessary establish casting, suggests that may safe effective presenting normal neurovascular exam.