What is a wrist fracture?
The term 'wrist' is commonly used to describe the area where the forearm meets (or articulates with) the hand, this is an importnant link that affords you the ability to place or use your hand in a vast possibility of positions in space. The term ‘wrist fracture’ is commonly used to describe a fracture of any of the bones involved in the articulation between the hand and the forearm, but most often the bones involved are the ‘radius’ and the ‘ulna’
How is a wrist fracture treated?
The aim of the treatment is to
- relieve your pain
- ensure the fracture heals, and heals in a good position
- regain function of the affected part
If the fracture fragments are displaced then they may require reduction back into a normal position, this can be done by manipulation (so called ‘closed reduction’) or by open surgical means for more complex fractures (so called ‘open reduction’). Internal fixation devices (such as plates and screws) are often used in open reduction cases. These devices are contoured to your bone and often will not require removal, their other advantage is that they often allow you to commence movements/physiotherapy exercises soon after the surgery.
The fracture then needs to be immobilised in place, usually with a plaster or a splint, and Dr Ihsheish will recommend physiotherapy at some point to minimise the stiffness that results after such injuries.
How long will the fracture take to heal ?
Fracture healing is an ongoing process that begins from the moment of the injury, and takes several weeks, the duration of 6 weeks is adequate for most, but many factors are involved in determining the speed with which a fracture heals (also called ‘fracture union’). Younger patients generally heal faster, and an immobilised fracture generally heals faster than one that is moving.
Dr Ihsheish can talk with you about any specific factors that may affect your injury healing rate.He will also keep you updated about the progress of your injury, which is generally monitored clinically and radiologically.
What happens after the cast has been removed?
Generally when the cast or splint is removed you will experience some stiffness and discomfort of the joint, this is normal, and physiotherapy is beneficial in helping you to regain movement and function. Do not be surprised if your wrist has some ongoing discomfort, this may be related to stiffness and soft tissue injuries that heal slower than bone and are not obvious on the xray.
If there is a plate/screws holding the fracture, will they BE removed?
Dr Ihsheish uses plates and screws that are made of a metal that is well tolerated (titanium), and contoured to the shape and size of your bone. It is uncommon for them to be removed routinely. They may require removal if they are thought to be infected, if they are thought to be impinging on your joint movement or function, or in growing younger patients. There are other indications to remove them but they are less common.Dr Ihsheish can discuss with you your individual case details.