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A distal radius fracture, also known as a broken wrist, is a break in the bone at the end of the forearm closest to the wrist joint. It is one of the most common bone fractures, especially among older adults.
Causes of distal radius fracture:
- Falls: The most common cause of distal radius fractures is a fall on an outstretched hand, especially in older adults, whose bones may be weaker due to osteoporosis.
- Sports injuries: Less commonly, distal radius fractures can occur from sports injuries, such as a fall during skiing or snowboarding, or from a direct blow to the wrist.
- Car accidents: In rare cases, distal radius fractures can occur from car accidents or other high-energy traumas.
Symptoms of distal radius fracture:
- Pain in the wrist, especially with movement
- Swelling and bruising around the wrist
- Deformity of the wrist, which may appear bent or crooked
- Difficulty moving the wrist or hand
- Weakness in the hand or wrist
Treatment of distal radius fracture:
Treatment for a distal radius fracture typically depends on the severity of the break and whether the bones are displaced (out of alignment). In most cases, treatment involves:
- Immobilization: A cast or splint is usually applied to immobilize the wrist and allow the bones to heal. The cast or splint may need to be worn for 4-6 weeks.
- Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to help manage pain.
- Physical therapy: After the cast or splint is removed, physical therapy can help to restore strength, range of motion, and function to the wrist and hand.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a distal radius fracture, especially if the bones are severely displaced or if there is damage to the nerves or blood vessels in the wrist.
Recovery from a distal radius fracture:
It typically takes 6-8 weeks for a distal radius fracture to heal completely. However, it may take several months to regain full strength and range of motion in the wrist and hand.
While non-surgical treatment is often preferred for distal radius fractures, surgery might be necessary in certain cases.
Surgical methods
used for treating these fractures
1. Volar Locking Plate Fixation:
This is the most common surgical procedure for distal radius fractures. It involves making an incision on the palm side (volar aspect) of the wrist to access the fracture site. The surgeon then uses a metal plate and screws to hold the broken bone fragments in place until they heal.
Advantages:
- Provides good stability for the fracture
- Allows for early movement of the wrist and hand
- Minimizes disruption of soft tissues on the backside of the wrist
Disadvantages:
- Risks associated with any surgery, such as infection and bleeding
- Potential for nerve or tendon injury
- Scarring on the palm side of the wrist
2. Dorsal Plate Fixation:
This procedure is less common than volar plate fixation and is typically used in situations where the volar approach is not suitable, such as in cases of severe soft tissue damage on the palm side of the wrist. In this method, the incision is made on the backside (dorsal aspect) of the wrist, and a plate and screws are used to fix the fracture.
Advantages:
- May be preferred in cases where the volar approach is not possible
Disadvantages:
- Increased risk of extensor tendon injury on the backside of the wrist
- May limit wrist extension
3. Percutaneous Pinning:
This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting thin wires (K-wires) through the skin and into the bone fragments to hold them in place. It is typically used for simple, non-displaced fractures or in patients who are not good candidates for open surgery due to medical conditions.
Advantages:
- Minimally invasive with less scarring
- Faster recovery time
Disadvantages:
- May not be suitable for all types of fractures
- K-wires may need to be removed in a follow-up procedure
4. External Fixation:
This method involves placing pins or wires through the skin and into the bone fragments, which are then connected to a metal frame outside the skin. This stabilizes the fracture without the need for an internal plate and screws.
Advantages:
- Minimally invasive
- Allows for easy access to the wound for cleaning and monitoring
Disadvantages:
- Can be bulky and uncomfortable to wear
- May interfere with daily activities
- Increased risk of pin site infection
It’s important to remember that the choice of surgical method will depend on various factors specific to each patient, such as the severity and type of fracture, age, and overall health. It’s crucial to discuss the risks and benefits of each option with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your individual case.
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We offer a full range of treatment options, including:
- Non-surgical treatment: Casting, splinting, and physical therapy to promote healing.
- Minimally invasive surgery: Procedures like percutaneous pinning for faster recovery and less scarring.
- Advanced surgical techniques: Volar and dorsal plate fixation for complex fractures requiring optimal stability.
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