February 25th, 2015
About Distal Radial Fracture Procedure & Recovery
If you or someone you love has experienced a wrist fracture and are anticipating a distal radial fracture procedure, you are not alone. These injuries are actually rather common, especially among women over the age of 50, due to the increased risks of osteoarthritis. Among the ten bones that make up the wrist, the most commonly fractured is the radius, a long bone which runs the length of your forearm. In many cases, this injury can be resolved without surgery. Even if a surgical procedure is necessary, however, the hand and wrist experts at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute have the experience and skill to help you or your loved one on the road to recovery.
In many cases, a distal radial fracture procedure does not include a surgical operation. If there is no bone fragmentation, and the bone has not shifted out of position, a splint or a cast may be the best approach for treatment. In these cases, after a period of splinting or casting, the doctor may recommend physical therapy to help rebuild strength in the hand, wrist, and arm.
However, if bone fragmentation and shifting have occurred, or if there is any involvement of the joint, patients can more likely expect a surgical distal radial fracture procedure. If surgery is considered necessary, there are a couple different options. Most fractures are treated with one small plate and several screws, which are applied after the bones are restored to the correct positioning. In other cases, pins may be used to hold the bones in place. The optimal approach for each patient may vary depending on a variety of factors; talk with your doctor or surgeon about which option is best for you or your loved one.
Following surgery, your doctor will most likely recommend a pain reliever to manage pain and reduce inflammation. During the recovery period, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions about use of the hand and arm as well as physical therapy after the cast’s removal. Additionally, make sure the keep your cast clean and dry and look out for swelling in your fingers. If this, or anything else unusual occurs, it is important to contact your doctor immediately to ensure that your wrist fracture is healing properly.
For experienced treatment and compassionate care for you or your loved one’s distal radial fracture, turn to Rothman Orthopaedic Institute. Our hand and wrist experts have the experienced you need, as well as the latest orthopaedic approaches, to help you restore your wrist and return to your daily activities. For more information about Rothman Orthopaedic Institute and our other specialities, contact us today at 1-800-321-9999.