Conversion to below-elbow cast after 3 weeks is safe for diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children.

ABSTRACT:

Background

It is unclear whether it is safe to convert above-elbow cast (AEC) to below-elbow cast (BEC) in a child who has sustained a displaced diaphyseal both-bone forearm fracture that is stable after reduction. In this multicenter study, we wanted to answer the question: does early conversion to BEC cause similar forearm rotation to that after treatment with AEC alone?

Children and methods

Children were randomly allocated to 6 weeks of AEC, or 3 weeks of AEC followed by 3 weeks of BEC. The primary outcome was limitation of pronation/supination after 6 months. The secondary outcomes were re-displacement of the fracture, limitation of flexion/extension of the wrist and elbow, complication rate, cast comfort, complaints in daily life, and cosmetics of the fractured arm.

SUBMITTER: Colaris JW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3822135 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature