Aim: To assess the adequacy of reduction of Colles fracture by haematoma block and intravenous sedation and its outcome.

Methodology: Retrospectively reviewed 70 Colles fracture reductions done in the A & E. 30 haematoma blocks and 40 intravenouss sedation. The prereduction radiographs were reviewed for the radial height & inclination and dorsal tilt. The outcome of the reduction was also reviewed.

Results: The mean age was 59 years for haematoma block and 56 years for intravenous sedation. Fracture classifications were similar in both groups using the Frykman and Universal classification. The mean prereduction radial length, radial inclination and dorsal tilt were equal in both groups. There was significant difference in post reduction measurements between the two groups. 30% of the haematoma block group had further manipulation and K wiring done whereas only 15% of the intravenous sedation group had further procedures done.

Conclusions: Our study showed that there was less remanipulation and better reduction in the intravenous group than the haematoma group. We recommend intravenous sedation as a preferred procedure for initial manipulation of Colles fratures for a better outcome