Broken Wrist
(fractured distal radius)
Treatment
The treatment of the a fractured distal radius depends on the type and severity of the fracture. These treatments include:
- Plaster Cast
- Manipulation and Plaster Cast
- Surgery
Plaster Cast
If your wrist is in good alignment, you may be treated in a plaster cast. This is generally for 6 weeks.
Manipulation and Plaster Cast
If your broken wrist is deformed and needs to be straightened or manipulated, then your doctor or surgeon will recommend a precedure called Manipulation or Reduction. This may be done in the Emergency Department or in Theatre with either a general anaesthetic to put you asleep or a regional anaesthetic to numb your hand.
Surgery
Surgery is sometimes needed to put the bone back into the correct position and hold it with either surgical wires or plates and screws. These devices hold your bone in the proper position whilst your fracture is healing.
Physiotherapy
After your cast or splint is removed, you'll likely need rehabilitation exercises or physiotherapy to reduce your stiffness and restore movement to your wris.
The rehabilitation cantake up to several months — or even longer — for complete healing of severe injuries.