Effects of Sri Lankan traditional medicine on radius and ulnar fracture in non-union state without removal of internal fixator

Abstract

Diaphysis fractures of the radius and ulna are common among humans. Internal fixation using plate and screws is one of a method used for the bone immobilization and alignment. Sri Lanka has a well-established traditional fracture management system (Kedum Bindum Vedakama). In Ayurveda, Sushruta Samhita describes Bhagna Chikithsa (treatments for fractures). Fifty-one years old male patient had a compound fracture in radius and ulnar and treated with allopathic medicine with internal fixation. Following a year after applying internal fixation, his X-ray showed nonunion of the bones and he was attended to Ayurveda treatment. Initially, nonunion bones were immobilized for six months using bamboo splints and Seethodaka oil, Pinda oil and katakaladi paste was applied. A paste of Navarathne oral herbal medication was also given for the first six months. Further, oil application was continued for three more months without application of bamboo splint. Motor, sensory and quality of life assessment with international osteoporosis foundation quality of life index (IOFQLI) was performed on at regular intervals. Initial power of wrist and fingers were at grade 1 and at the end of 5-month it improved to grade 5. The IOFQOL scores were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed rank test. There was a significant (p<0.05) difference between the pre-treatment (17) and post-treatment (55) IOFQLI scores. Evidence of X-ray shows complete healing of fracture. This report signifies that using the methods and medicines in Ayurveda and traditional orthopedic system with allopathic diagnostic and prognostic indicators can successfully treat a nonunion of bones without removing the internal fixator.