Using glucocorticoids to improve recovery from wrist fractures

The Effect on Wrist Range of Motion With Perioperative Glucocorticoid Administration in the Treatment of Adult Distal Radius Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Phase 4 Interventional Geisinger Clinic · NCT03898154

This study is testing if giving glucocorticoid injections to people with wrist fractures can help them recover better and have less pain after surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorGeisinger Clinic Academic / other
Locations1 site (Danville, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT03898154 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This investigation compares the functional outcomes and range of motion in patients with distal radius fractures who receive glucocorticoid injections versus those who do not. The study is a prospective, randomized, controlled trial that aims to determine if glucocorticoid administration leads to better recovery and fewer complications. Patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation for acute distal radius fractures will be enrolled to assess the impact of glucocorticoids on postoperative pain and recovery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older undergoing surgical treatment for acute distal radius fractures.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to glucocorticoids, such as diabetes or those with open fractures, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance recovery and reduce complications for patients with distal radius fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with glucocorticoid administration in similar contexts, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient 18 years of age and older.
* Patients undergoing ORIF with VP fixation of an acute, isolated DRF with or without associated distal ulna fracture and with or without associated carpal tunnel release

Exclusion Criteria:

* Worker's compensation patient
* Non-operatively treated fractures
* Open fractures
* Preoperative neurovascular injury
* Coexisting fractures or injuries
* Diabetes mellitus
* Allergy or contraindication to GCs
* Associated non-orthopedic injury that would prohibit the administration of GCs
* Patients currently incarcerated
* Pregnant patients

Where this trial is running

Danville, Pennsylvania

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.
Conditions Distal Radius Fracture
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.