Distal Radius Fractures

Distal radius fractures are one of the most common types of wrist fractures and broken bones we see in Ogden. This type affects the wrist and usually occurs as the result of impact while the hand is stretched. Distal radius fractures can affect everyone from young patients with high energy to older patients who sustain falls.

Some distal radius fractures can be treated without surgery using a cast, while others will require an operation. The exact location and type of break will determine which course of action Dr. Richards will use on your wrist fracture at the Ogden Clinic.  Most distal radius fractures fall into three categories:

Stable (or Undisplaced) Distal Radius Fracture

This type of fracture is one where parts of the bone have not significantly moved (caused displacement). If a stable distal radius fracture is sustained, it can usually be treated with a fiberglass cast and does not require surgery. During the six-or-so weeks while you’re in a cast, X-rays are performed to check that your fracture has not moved significantly. You’ll be encouraged to maintain a full range of motion to the joints surrounding the injury while you’re in a cast and will be given exercises to regain the range of motion in your wrist, forearm, and hand muscles gradually as the fracture heals.

Unstable (or Displaced) Distal Radius Fracture

When broken portions of the bone have moved, the wrist fracture is displaced. The portions may move apart, compress together, or angle toward each other. Displaced fractures will require immediate attention; the doctor will give you pain medication and a local anesthetic before they pull or push the fracture into a suitable position before applying a plaster cast. Surgery is sometimes required for displaced broken wrist bones at our clinic in Ogden if the bone fragments cannot be pulled/pushed back into an acceptable position.

Surgery can seem daunting but it may have a couple advantages. If surgery is required, you will not need to be in a cast for six weeks. If surgery is able to hold the bone fragments in position, you’ll be placed in a lightweight, removable splint and will begin to regain range of movement following surgery.

Intra-articular Distal Radius Fracture

When a break goes through the joint surface, it’s called intra-articular. Surgery is common for this type of fracture because the joint’s surface needs to be as smooth as possible to reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.

Types of Distal Radius Fracture Surgery

Sometimes the position of the bone is so out of place that it cannot be corrected or kept corrected in a cast. Surgery typically involves making an incision to directly access the broken bones to improve alignment (open reduction). Depending on the fracture, there are a number of options for holding the bone in the correct position while it heals:

• Cast
• Metal pins (usually stainless steel or titanium)
• Plate and screws
• External fixator
• A combination of these techniques

Recovery

Recovery is different for every individual because the treatment methods for distal radius fractures are so varied. Dr. Richards will discuss your wrist fracture and broken bone treatments at the Ogden Clinic, including:

• Your recovery plan
• Pain management
• Cast and wound care
• Potential complications
• Plan to return to daily activities

Most fractures hurt moderately for a few days to a couple weeks. Using ice, elevation, and non-prescription pain relief medications are all advised to relieve pain. For severe pain, Dr. Richards may suggest prescription-strength medication for a few days. Be aware that although opioids help relieve pain after surgery, they are a narcotic and can be extremely addictive. It is important to use opioids for wrist fractures and broken bones in Ogden only as directed by Dr. Richards.