Early Functional Postoperative Therapy of XXXX with a Dynamic Orthosis: Results of a Prospective Randomized Cross-Over Comparative Study.

@entity1 @entity42231 @entity174
INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted according to @entity42231 criteria as a prospective randomized cross-over study. The primary goal of the study was to determine clinical findings and @entity1 satisfaction with postoperative treatment. 29 @entity1 with a @entity174 that was surgically stabilized from volar and who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled over a 12-month period. Each @entity1 randomly received either a dorsal plaster splint or a vacuum-fit flexible but blocked orthosis applied postoperatively in the operating theatre to achieve postoperative immobilization. After one week all @entity1 were crossed over to the complementary device maintaining the immobilization until end of week 2. After week 2 both groups were allowed to exercise wrist mobility with a physiotherapist, in the orthosis group the device was deblocked, thus allowing limited wrist mobility. After week 4 the devices were removed in both groups. Follow-up exams were performed after postoperative weeks 1, 2, 4 and 12. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Results were determined after week 1 and 2 using SF 36 and a personally compiled questionnaire; after weeks 4 and 12 with a clinical check-up, calculation of ROM and the DASH Score. Comparison of the two groups showed a significant difference in ROM for volar flexion after 4 weeks, but no significant differences in DASH Score, duration of disability or x-ray findings. With regard to satisfaction with comfort and hygiene, @entity1 were significantly more satisfied with the dynamic orthosis, and 23 of the 29 @entity1 would prefer the flexible vacuum orthosis in future. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) DRKS00006097.
