Distal Radius/Colles fracture ("wrist fracture")

Distal Radius/Colles fracture ("wrist fracture") very common fracture involving the end of one or both forearm bones (radius/ulna). The fracture can occur from a fall to the outstretched hand, motor vehicle accident, or sports injury.

Signs/symptoms include pain and swelling of the wrist, and limited motion and function of the wrist.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the stability and alignment of the fracture. Initial treatment involves immobilizing the wrist, ice, and elevation. The goal of treatment for these fractures is to restore the natural alignment of the wrist including the relationship between the radius and ulna bone, and the joint surface of the radius bone. Fractures that are stable can be treated in a cast for 4 to 8 weeks depending on the healing of the fracture.

Surgery

Surgical intervention is reserved for unstable fractures of the wrist and can range from realigning the fracture with casting, pin fixation, plates and screws, external fixation, or a combination of these.