Background: The distal radius keeps heading the list of commonly fractured bones. Although little is known about the frequency and localization of accompanying fractures as well as their influence on the total course of in-patient treatment.
Objective: This study is supposed to show the influence of concomitant fractures. These fractures should be identified as risk factors for a prolonged stay to improve the in hospital treatment.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 721 patients with distal radius fracture. Frequency and localization of concomitant fractures, AO-type, patient age as well as duration of in-hospital treatment were analyzed.
Results: Out of 721 patients 124 (17.2%) had one or more concomitant fractures (CF). The most common CF were proximal femur fractures, pelvic ring fractures and humerus fractures. Compared to patients without CF, these patients showed a significant increase in duration of post operative hospital stay (5.2 vs. 12.5 days, p=0.0001).
Conclusions: Patients presenting a concomitant fracture should be thoroughly cared for by their physicians and therapists. Especially an early and focused mobilization and a well-timed relocation for further medical treatment are important to reduce avoidable treatment days in the acute care hospital.
Keywords: Distal radius fracture; concomitant fractures; geriatric fractures; hospital stay.