What is Distal Radius Fracture Fixation?
Distal radius fracture fixation refers to a surgical procedure performed to stabilize and heal a broken distal radius - the end portion of the radius bone near the wrist. These fractures are common, especially from falls on an outstretched hand. The procedure involves realigning and stabilizing the fractured pieces of the distal radius using internal fixation devices like plates, screws, or pins. The goal is to restore wrist function, alignment, and strength.
What are the Indications for Distal Radius Fracture Fixation?
Distal radius fracture fixation is typically recommended in the following scenarios:
- The bone is severely displaced or angulated
- The fracture is intra-articular (extends into the wrist joint)
- Open fractures (bone pierces the skin)
- Multiple fractures or high-energy trauma
- The patient is active and needs early return of function
- Failure of conservative (non-surgical) treatment
What Does the Procedure for Distal Radius Fracture Fixation Involve?
The procedure for distal radius fracture fixation typically involves the following steps:
- The patient receives either regional anesthesia (such as a nerve block) or general anesthesia to ensure comfort during the surgery.
- A small incision is made, most commonly on the volar (palm-side) of the wrist, although a dorsal (back-side) approach may be used depending on the fracture pattern.
- The surgeon carefully repositions the broken fragments of the distal radius into their normal alignment. Fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging) is often used to ensure accurate positioning.
- A metal plate (usually made of stainless steel or titanium) is applied to the bone and secured with screws to stabilize the fracture. In some cases, pins or external fixators may be used, especially if the fracture is severely comminuted or associated with soft tissue injury.
- Once the hardware is in place and alignment is confirmed, the surgeon closes the incision with sutures or staples and applies a sterile dressing.
- A splint or a light dressing is usually applied to protect the wrist and minimize movement in the initial recovery phase.
The entire procedure typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the fracture.
What Does Postoperative Care for Distal Radius Fracture Fixation Involve?
Postoperative care for distal radius fracture fixation involves pain management, wound care, and gradual rehabilitation to restore wrist function. Initially, the wrist is kept elevated and immobilized with a splint or dressing to reduce swelling and protect the surgical site. Pain is managed with medications, and patients are advised to keep the incision clean and dry. Stitches are usually removed after 10–14 days. Follow-up X-rays are taken to monitor bone healing. Physical therapy typically begins within a few weeks to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility. Full recovery can take several months, depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient’s overall health.
What are the Risks and Complications of Distal Radius Fracture Fixation?
Risks and complications of distal radius fracture fixation include infection, nerve or tendon injury, stiffness or loss of wrist motion, irritation or failure of the hardware, delayed bone healing or nonunion, and the possible need for additional surgery to remove hardware or correct complications.
What are the Benefits of Distal Radius Fracture Fixation?
The benefits of distal radius fracture fixation include stable fixation allowing early wrist movement, better anatomical alignment and function, faster return to daily activities, and lower risk of malunion or nonunion.
