Acute Distal Radius Fracture: PAF Analysis

PAF stands for Patient, Accident and Fracture. This new system of analysis of acute distal radius fractures was built because there is no agreement so far for any classification of these injuries. AAOS and Cochrane recent reports found no evidence for any treatment recommendations despite the huge amount of literature devoted to this topic. This may be due to heterogenecity of many series in terms of patient distribution.

The PAF system provides a chart analysis which is self explanatory; patient's characteristics is the first item, taking into account not only age and sex, but more importantly his or her functional needs from a personal interview. Accident's energy is a second item which could be a clue to look for hidden associated injuries. Fracture is the third component. The AO classification system is used along with a number of factors which have proven to be important in terms of prognosis.

The PAF system may have an impact on epidemiologic knowledge, clinical research (more homogeneous groups of patients) and teaching (checklist for residents and fellows).

Those surgeons who are interested to participate in a multicenter international database may send their filled forms ( [Form 1] ) to [e-mail] for inclusion.

Form 1

PAF Analysis Form.

Source: Herzberg G, Izem Y, Al Saati M, Plotard F. PAF analysis of acute distal radius fractures in adults. Preliminary results. Chirurgie de la main 2010;29:231−235.