MANAGEMENT FOR DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURES IN ADULT: CLINICAL AUDIT

Abstract

Background:

Proper management of distal radius fracture (DRF) in adults is necessary to avoid impaired hand and wrist function.

Aim:

This audit makes a distinction between clinical practice and guidelines which will lead to the development of approaches to improve the quality of day-to-day care with

Method:

This audit proposal is proposed by an Orthopedic surgeon. The data will be collected in a single center. The data required for this audit is radiological evidence resulting in radial shortening, dorsal tilt, comminution, and radial tilt. Clinical audit is a continuous part of the process of quality andimprovement which focuses on clinical practice and improving the care provided to the patient. Audit standards are acquired from the Fractures (non-complex):  assessment and management NICE guideline [NG38] against the standard practice. The recommended step to meet the standard: Firstly, close reduction and plaster cast is done. Secondly, if there is any obvious deformity of the wrist the patient is taken up for open reduction and internal fixation. The foremostis the timing for surgery for intra-articular fracture, within 72hours of trauma the patient should be advised for surgery, and extra-articular fixation for the fracture is likely to be done within 7 days of injury.

Conclusion:

This clinical audit of Distal Radius Fracture gives the orthopedic surgeons insight into the definitive treatment for extra-articular fractures and the timing for surgery in both intra-articular and extra-articular fractures of the wrist.