Evaluating radiological criteria for stability in wrist fractures

Radiological Criteria for Instability in Distal Radius Fractures

Oslo University Hospital · NCT06617780

This study tests if certain X-ray and CT scan results can help doctors decide if adults with wrist fractures need surgery after a closed reduction.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment212 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorOslo University Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Oslo, Oslo)
Trial IDNCT06617780 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the radiological criteria that can indicate whether a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture remains stable after closed reduction. It focuses on patients aged 18 to 65 years and aims to establish criteria that could help determine if surgical intervention is necessary. The study involves X-ray imaging after three months and CT scans the day after the closed reduction procedure to assess fracture stability. The goal is to improve treatment decisions and outcomes for patients with wrist fractures.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 65 with specific types of dorsally displaced distal radius fractures.

Not a fit: Patients with volar comminution, open fractures, or significant prior wrist injuries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate assessments of fracture stability, potentially reducing unnecessary surgeries and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been attempts to establish criteria for fracture stability, this study addresses a gap in standardization and could provide novel insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criterias:

* 18-65 years old, living in Oslo/surroundings (available for follow-up)
* AO class A2/3 or C1/C2 fractures
* Dorsally displaced fracture of the distal radius (minimum VLDV more than100 or ulnar variance more than 2 mm compared to healthy side before reduction) with or without PSU fracture
* Reduced to an acceptable position (VLDV 75-95 degrees, RIV more than 15 degrees, ulnar variance more than 2 mm, step/diastasis in the joint surface less than 2 mm)

Exclution criterias:

* Volar comminution (AO A3.3), step/diastasis more than 2 mm before reduction
* Ad latus more than 2 cortex widths after reduction
* Bilateral fractures
* Open fractures
* Previous wrist fracture in adulthood
* Still open growth disc on X-ray
* Antebrachium or carpal fracture
* Ligament damage in the root of the hand or DRUJ
* Lack of compliance (dementia, psychiatry/drug abuse, etc.)
* Language problems
* Rheumatoid arthritis or other systemic disease that can affect the result

Where this trial is running

Oslo, Oslo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Distal Radius Fractures, Wrist Fractures, Distal Forearm Fractures

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.