Cancellous Allograft Versus Autologous Bone Grafting for Repair of Comminuted Distal Radius Fractures: a Prospective, Randomized Trial

Background: Distal radius fractures with a large metaphyseal defect often need defect filling. We assessed the reliability of a new allogenic transplant as a bone-graft substitute in comparison to autologous iliac crest bone-grafting.

Methods: This prospective, randomized study included 90 patients. Fracture-osteosynthesis was done with 2.7 mm quarter-tube plates. Tutoplast-cancellous-chips were used as allografts. Clinical and radiologic parameters were determined at three and 12 months after surgery.

Results: Overall outcomes were assessed according to the Demerit Point System: There were 71% good-to-excellent results in the "Tutoplast"; group and 75% good-to-excellent in the "iliac crest" group. Radiologic parameters were comparable and within normal range. Complications deriving from iliac bone harvesting were notably more frequent in the iliac crest group. Operation time was significantly shorter in the Tutoplast group.

Conclusion: By the use of the investigated allograft no adverse effects were detected on the outcome of the treated radius fractures. Therefore, this new allograft could be a desirable alternative to autologous bone grafting from the iliac crest, as operating and anesthetics times are shortened and complications of iliac crest bone grafting avoided.