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Summary
This study examines the environmental impact of two common treatment pathways for hand fractures (metacarpal shaft fractures): surgical and non-surgical management. Healthcare contributes significantly to climate change, and orthopedic surgery in particular generates substantial greenhouse gas emissions. Although surgical treatment is frequently favored for these fractures, it is not always superior to non-surgical treatment, and the difference in environmental impact between these options is not well understood. In this study, researchers will measure and compare the environmental impact of each treatment pathway, from inclusion to twelve months follow-up. This includes environmental impact related to single-use material, medical equipment, energy use, medications, and waste. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) will be performed and a mean difference in environmental impact between treatments pathways will be calculates. A Hotspot analysis will also be performed to highlight key sources of environmental impacts. The findings may help guide more sustainable healthcare practices without compromising patient care.
Official title: The CARBO CARBON Study: a Prospective Observational Comparative Cohort Study on Environmental Impact From Two Metacarpal Shaft Fracture Treatment Pathways
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
30
Start Date
2026-03-23
Completion Date
2028-03
Last Updated
2026-06-04
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Non-operative treatment
Non-operative treatment through immediate unrestricted mobilization with optional buddy taping or removable splinting for comfort.
Surgical fixation
Open reduction and internal fixation with plate and screws or screws only, followed by postoperative imobilisation and rehabilitation.
Locations (1)
Karolinska Institutet, Danderyd's hospital
Stockholm, Stockholm County, Sweden