A wrist fracture is the most common upper extremity injury.
It can happen as a result of a simple fall or while practising a sport.
In the case of a displaced fracture, there is often a deformity in the wrist accompanied by a bruise.

Distal radius fracture: symptoms and diagnosis

The patient must go hospital for an examination. This will be completed by x-rays. In the case of a more complex fracture, when the joint is affected, a scan may be necessary.

Distal radius fracture: treatment and progression

Medical treatment

Orthopaedic treatment and a splint will be used to treat a non-displaced fracture. The doctor will offer the patient regular checkups in order to exclude a secondary displacement of the fracture.

Surgery

Surgery is recommended for an unstable displaced fracture.
The operation will be performed under locoregional anaesthetic at a day clinic.
The wrist fracture will be reduced in order to restore the wrist joint. The fragments will be stabilised in the majority of cases using a titanium plate, which will be removed 8 to 12 months later during another operation.
The main advantage of surgery is that it helps restore the wrist’s anatomy and limits the risk of osteoarthritis in the long term. Once the fracture has been stabilised, early mobilisation of the joint is possible in order to prevent the risk of stiffness and dystrophy.