Functional outcomes and cost estimation for extra-articular and simple intra-articular distal radius fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation versus closed reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation

BACKGROUND: We sought to compare direct costs and clinical and radiographic outcomes for distal radius fractures (DRF) treated with open reduction internal fixation with volar locking plates (VLP) versus closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP). METHODS: We identified patients with AO-type A and C1 DRFs from a prospective database. Outcomes were assessed at 6 weeks and at 3, 6 and 12 months, and surgical care costs were estimated. RESULTS: Twenty patients were treated with CRPP and 24 with VLP. There were no significant differences in patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) scores between the 2 groups at any time point (mean 16.2 ± 23.1 in the CRPP group v. 21.5 ± 23.6 in the VLP group, p = 0.91). Overall alignment was maintained in both groups; however, there was a greater loss of radial height over time with CRPP than VLP (0.97 mm v. 0.25 mm, p = 0.018). The mean duration of surgery was longer for VLP than CRPP (113.9 ± 39.5 min v. 86.5 ± 7.8 min, p = 0.029), but there were fewer clinic visits (5.2 ± 1.4 v. 7.8 ± 1.3, p < 0.001) and fewer radiographs (7.4 ± 2.7 v. 9 ± 2.4, p = 0.031). The total cost per case was greater for VLP than CRPP ($1637.27 v. $733.91). CONCLUSION: Based on PRWE scores, VLPs did not offer any significant advantage over CRPP in patients with simple fracture types between 3 and 12 months, but they were much more costly. Whether VLP offers any functional advantage earlier in recovery, thereby justifying their expense, requires further investigation in the form of a prospective randomized trial with a detailed cost analysis.