Functional and Radiological Outcomes of Extra-articular Distal Radius Fractures Treated With Percutaneous K-wiring Using the Ulna as a Cantilever: A Single-Centre Prospective Observational Study

Background: Distal end radius fractures are among the most common orthopaedic injuries and can significantly impair wrist function if not managed appropriately.Various treatment modalities exist, but achieving stable fixation with minimal complications remains a challenge, especially in extra-articular fractures.Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome of distal end radius fractures treated by K-wiring using the ulna as a cantilever.Methods: This prospective observational study included 80 skeletally mature patients with extra-articular distal end radius fractures treated by closed reduction and percutaneous K-wiring using the ulna as a cantilever.Patients were followed clinically and radiologically for three months.Functional outcomes were assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, and radiological outcomes were assessed based on fracture union and time to radiological union during the follow-up period.The data were analysed using descriptive statistics.Categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages (N (%)), while continuous variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation.DASH scores were analysed as a continuous measure and categorised as excellent, good, satisfactory, or poor according to the specified score ranges.No inferential statistical tests were performed.Results: A total of 80 patients were included in the study.The mean age was 52.2 years, with the majority of patients (n = 32, 40%) belonging to the 41-60-year age group.Female patients predominated, accounting for 48 (60%) of the study population.Road traffic accidents were the most common mode of injury, occurring in 45 (56.3%) patients, followed by falls in 35 (43.7%) patients.Radiological union was achieved within 8-12 weeks in 36 (45%) patients, while non-union was observed in 3 (3.8%)patients.Functional outcomes were excellent in 21 (26.3%)patients, good in 38 (47.5%) patients, satisfactory in 18 (22.5%)patients, and poor in 3 (3.7%)patients.Overall, good to excellent outcomes were achieved in 59 (73.8%) patients.Conclusion: Percutaneous K-wiring using the ulna as a cantilever appears to be a feasible treatment option for appropriately selected extra-articular distal radius fractures and was associated with acceptable shortterm functional and radiological outcomes in this prospective observational study.