Fixation of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius using intramedullary nailing: a randomized trial versus palmar locking plates.

Background: Proposed benefits of intramedullary techniques include limited soft tissue dissection while affording sufficient stability to allow early wrist motion. The primary null hypothesis of this randomized trial was that there is no significant difference with respect to functional outcome, pain and disability between patients treated with either 2.4-mm volar locking plate fixation or intramedullary nail fixation of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius.

Intramedullary nail versus volar plate fixation of extra-articular distal radius fractures. Two year results of a prospective randomized trial.

Background: Intramedullary techniques for stabilization of displaced distal radius fractures are now available. Purported benefits include limited soft tissue dissection while affording sufficient stability to allow early wrist motion. The primary null hypothesis of this randomized trial is that there is no significant difference with respect to functional outcome, pain and disability between patients treated with either 2.