Does operative fixation of isolated fractures of ulna shaft results in different outcomes than non-operative management by long arm cast?

Objective: The optimal treatment for isolated fractures of ulnar shaft is debatable. The purpose of this study was to compare functional outcomes and radiological union in patients treated for isolated fractures of the ulnar shaft by open reduction and internal fixation and a long arm cast.

Methods: This prospective study was conducted at level I trauma center from November 2014 to March 2016. 30 patients with isolated fractures of ulnar shaft were randomized to two groups to receive treatment by open reduction and internal fixation by plates and screws and a long arm cast. Outcome assessment was done by Disabilities of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, range of motion at wrist and elbow, grip strength and radiological union. Quantitative variables were summarized Mean or Median. Normality was assessed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Independent samples -test and Mann-Whitney test were used for normally distributed variables and non-normally distributed variables respectively. Categorical variables were summarized as proportions. Effect of the intervention for categorical variables was assessed using Chi-square test.

Results: There was no difference between the groups for pain on Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), grip strength, DASH score, and union at the end of 12 months. There was no difference between the groups for range of motion at the elbow and wrist. 12 (85.7%) patients in the ORIF group and 15 (93.7%) in the cast group united at the end of 12 months. The mean time to union was 13 weeks in the ORIF group and 18 weeks in the cast group.

Conclusion: Open reduction and internal fixation results in anatomical restoration of ulna, but this does not translates to better functional outcomes in short term (12 months).