A comparison between subjective outcome score and moderate radial shortening following a fractured distal radius in patients of mean age 69 years.

Radial shortening has been associated with a poor functional outcome following a fractured distal radius. This paper reports the results of evaluation by the patient rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) score of 60 patients (mean age 69) who underwent closed reduction and K-wire fixation of distal radial fractures. In this patient group, no association was found between moderate radial shortening, either at injury or fracture union, and this subjective outcome score. A significant association was found between the assessment of these fractures by the Frykman classification and the PRWE score (P=0.01).