![]() Steven Lee may utilize different techniques to best treat the fracture. The basic surgical principles for fixing distal radius fractures believe it or not are not that different from carpentry, and therefore hardware that is used may seem like it comes from a hardware store, just medical grade! Because every fracture is unique, Dr. Multiple treatment options exist depending on the fracture pattern, age of the patient, and patient requirements. In the event that this happens, these patients will unfortunately require surgery to correct this problem by having a tendon transfer. If this happens, patients may feel a pop followed by the inability to extend their thumb into a hitchhiker's position. Patients may sustain a tendon rupture to the tendon that extends the thumb (EPL tendon). However, an interesting phenomenon can occur in less than 5% of patients with non-displaced distal radius fractures. In general, non-displaced fractures are good and preferable because it usually means that no surgery or even manipulation of the bone is necessary. While this is not typically popular with patients, the splint/brace/cast may have to go above the elbow if the fracture is deemed to be more of an unstable fracture pattern. After two weeks, the choice of a cast versus some type of brace is typically made based on the stability of the fracture, patient compliance, and personal preference. In children, a cast may be preferable if there is a concern of the child removing the splint. If non-operative treatment has been chosen, the initial treatment is often a splint for up to 2 weeks. The parameters of what can be accepted non-surgically are typically more strict for the younger and more active patient. Steven Lee takes into account include the fracture displacement/angulation, shortening, joint involvement, whether it is associated with an open laceration, the age of the fracture, the age of the patient, how active the patient is, whether a reduction/manipulation maneuver has already been attempted, how quickly a patient needs to return to activities such as sports or work, etc. Whether or not a distal radius fracture requires a splint/cast, reduction/manipulation, or surgery depends on multiple factors. In these cases, additional radiologic studies such a Cat Scan (CT), MRI, or Bone Scan may be advised. Sometimes the fracture cannot be adequately seen or the treatment cannot be adequately determined with just an x-ray. It is important to note that being able to open and close your fingers without much pain does not necessarily mean that you don't have a fracture.ĭistal radius fractures are typically initially evaluated with x-ray. Patients may also experience swelling, bruising, stiffness, or loss of movement. Patient's most commonly experience pain on the thumb side of the wrist. Each fracture of the distal radius is unique and depends on the direction and severity of the force as well as the patient's inherent bone properties. Both terms actually mean the same thing, it's just that fracture is a more medical term. Patients will commonly ask if it is broken or merely fractured. ![]() ![]() Distal radius fractures are usually caused by falling on an outstretched hand, although a direct blow to the distal radius can also cause a fracture. ![]()
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