{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Traditional radiography versus computed tomography to assess reduced distal radius fractures.
{Author}: Dankelman LHM;Barvelink B;Verhofstad MHJ;Wijffels MME;Colaris JW;
{Journal}: Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg
{Volume}: 0
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2024 Jul 10
{Factor}: 2.374
{DOI}: 10.1007/s00068-024-02598-5
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>This study compares computed tomography (CT) with plain radiography in its ability to assess distal radius fracture (DRF) malalignment after closed reduction and cast immobilization.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>Malalignment is defined as radiographic fracture alignment beyond threshold values according to the Dutch guideline encompassing angulation, inclination, positive ulnar variance and intra-articular step-off or gap. After identifying 96 patients with correct alignment on initial post-reduction radiographs, we re-assessed alignment on post-reduction CT scans.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Significant discrepancies were found between radiographs and CT scans in all measurement parameters. Notably, intra-articular step-off and gap variations on CT scans led to the reclassification of the majority of cases from correct alignment to malalignment. CT scans showed malalignment in 53% of cases, of which 73% underwent surgery.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>When there is doubt about post-reduction alignment based on radiograph imaging, additional CT scanning often reveals malalignment, primarily due to intra-articular incongruency.