Distal Radius Steroid

The primary goal of this study is to compare functional outcomes (range of motion [flexion, extension, supination, pronation], return to work, of patients with distal radius fractures who receive intraoperative glucocorticoids to those that do not. Secondary goals include comparison of pain control (number of pain pills consumed, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores) between patients with distal radius fractures who receive intraoperative glucocorticoids to those that do not. The primary endpoint of this study will occur when 18 patients in each test-group complete the 6 month follow up visit for study.

Inclusion Criteria:Intra- or extra-articular distal radius fractures (AO 23-A2,3; 23B-1,2,3; 23C-1,2,3) treated with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF)Age >18Exclusion Criteria:Open fracturesPathologic fracturesConcomitant ipsilateral upper extremity fracture (not including distal ulna)Medical contraindication to systemic glucocorticoids (insulin-dependent Diabetes mellitus, history of avascular necrosis, allergy)Narcotic dependenceWomen who are pregnant or breastfeeding