Key Points Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are common in patients’ aged 50 and older, typically resulting from a low energy mechanism such as a fall from standing height. DRFs in this population offer an opportunity to identify patients with a…
Key Points Epidemiology: Fractures of the distal radius are the most common upper extremity fracture sustained in the elderly population. The incidence of these fractures is expected to increase in the future with increasing cost to the healthcare system. Nonsurgical…
Key Points Accept only minor fracture displacement in diaphyseal forearm fractures because the remodeling capacity is low and even mild malunion can result in impaired forearm rotation. Diaphyseal forearm fractures that are stable after reduction can be treated nonoperatively with…
Key Points Treatment of pediatric distal radius fractures (DRFs) is challenging because of possible involvement of the physis and the remodeling capacity by growth. Young children with a fracture close to the most active distal physis angulated in the sagittal…
Key Points Diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is challenging and remains a hot topic of debate as despite decades of research, the etiology remains entirely unclear. Recent randomized controlled trials have questioned the role of vitamin C as…
Key Points Current evidences show no significant difference of clinical outcomes between patients treated with versus without additional physiotherapeutic intervention, but high-quality studies are lacking. Patient education and exercise (so-called home exercise program) seems sufficient after distal radius fracture (DRF)…
Key Points Restoration of the main radiographic distal radial parameters has long been a focus of treatment in closed versus open management of distal radial fractures (DRFs). Commonly used radiographic predictors for assessing adequate anatomic restoration include radial inclination, sagittal…
Key Points The development of palmar locking plate fixation for surgical treatment for distal radius fracture (DRF) provides successful outcome. However, persistent ulnar-sided wrist pain (USWP) after healed DRF is often encountered. USWP is common after DRF and can improve…
Key Points Database studies and case series suggest most ulnar fractures associated with distal radius fracture do not benefit from specific treatment. In particular, there is no advantage to fixation of the ulna if it lines up reasonably after the…
Key Points All fractures of the distal radius should be evaluated with a physical exam to test for concurrent instability at the distal radioulnar joint. Radiographs that show excessive radial shortening, widening at the distal radioulnar joint, or a large…