Functional Outcome of Distal Radius Fractures Managed by Barzullah Working Classification

BACKGROUND: Management of distal radius fractures (DRFs) is still controversial and may be influenced by the initial fracture classification. Even though numerous classification systems have been proposed in this regard, the evaluation and management of this fracture has remained problematic. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome of DRF managed on the basis of a new classification. This classification named as Barzullah Working Classification represents a modification of Melone classification, which is based on fracture stability. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 310 DRFs of patients skeletally matured referred to a tertiary care hospital at a period of 18 months were classified as per the new classification system into four types; metaphyseal stable, metaphyseal unstable, radiocarpal stable, and radiocarpal unstable fractures. They were managed and followed over a mean period of 15.10 ± 5.4 months, and the results were recorded at the final follow-up. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 51.22 ± 20.58 years. Most of the patients were females (n=189, 64.19%). The minimal follow up was 6 months with a mean of 15.10 ± 5.4 months. Mean mayo wrist scores were 95 ± 4, 80 ± 7.4, 75 ± 7.4, and 70 ± 6.9, for stable metaphyseal fractures, unstable metaphyseal radial, stable radiocarpal fractures and unstable radiocarpal fractures, respectively. The overall mean mayo wrist functional score was 80.58 ± 12.3 (good results) at final follow up. CONCLUSIONS: Various modalities of treatment used differentially in different types of DRFs based on the Barzullah Working Classification give good results in spite of conflicting literature.