Non-operative management of distal radius fractures by mumiaee: a randomized clinical trial

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran.

2 Orthopedic Research Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran.

3 Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

4 Orthopedic Research Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran

5 Clinical Research Development Unit, Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

Abstract

Objective: This placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial (RCT) aimed to compare the time of union, and radiological, and clinical outcomes between patients taking Mumiaee and those taking a placebo drug. Mumiaee is a natural mineral-rich substance that has been utilized for centuries in various traditional medical systems and is recognized in Persian medicine for its potential therapeutic role in bone healing.
Materials and Methods: This RCT was done in Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran on 44 of patients. Subsequently, radiographic parameters such as radial height, radial inclination, and articular step were assessed, alongside clinical outcomes including visual analog scale (VAS), disability of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH), patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE), and Mayo Wrist Score Questionnaire.
Results: This study involved 44 patients with acute distal radius fractures (DRF) in a two-arm RCT. The intervention group (M) received daily capsules containing 250 mg Mumiaee plus 250 mg Avicel powder, while the control group (P) received capsules containing only 500 mg of Avicel powder. After 6 weeks, significant differences were observed in range of motion, grip strength, and clinical questionnaire scores between the two groups. However, no significant differences were found in radiological parameters at this time point. Also, there was a statistical variance in wrist extension, grip strength, and Mayo wrist score 12 weeks post-operation.
Conclusion: The results showed that the M group had improved grip strength, wrist extension, and Mayo questionnaire outcomes compared to the P group. Additionally, M group had shorter union time. Mumiaee may have a potential role in supporting bone repair following DRF, however, the current study included limited sample size and focused on specific types of fractures. Therefore, larger-scale studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to better evaluate the effectiveness of Mumiaee.

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