Functional Outcomes of Distal Radius Fractures According to Surgical Technique: A Retrospective Study Using the DASH Score

Distal radius fractures are common injuries requiring tailored treatment approaches. This study explores the relationship between the DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) score and various surgical techniques in patients treated for wrist fractures. A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted involving 140 patients with distal radius fractures treated between 2017 and 2022 at CHU-NDS. Data were collected through phone interviews using the DASH questionnaire and clinical records. Four surgical methods were evaluated: closed reduction, DVR (dorsal volar radial), Kapandji technique, and percutaneous pinning. Findings indicated a significant variation in DASH scores across techniques, with closed reduction yielding the lowest DASH score, suggesting the best functional outcome, and DVR the highest, indicating poorer results. These outcomes emphasize the importance of selecting the appropriate surgical method based on individual patient factors and fracture characteristics. The study underscores the need for more standardized surgical and rehabilitation protocols to optimize functional recovery and patient satisfaction in distal radius fracture management.