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…
Key Points Essex-Lopresti injuries are frequently missed, therefore every proximal radius fracture requires at least a clinical and radiological examination of the elbow, forearm and wrist. In case of a clinical suspect Essex-Lopresti injury the recommended diagnostic tools to find…
Key Points Recognition of a Galeazzi pattern of injury is essential, as failure to recognize the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) injury can lead to permanent impairment. The primary goal of management is to obtain anatomic restoration of the radius and…
Key Points Simultaneous distal radius and scaphoid fractures are rare. If diagnosed, rule out or confirm if they are part of a trans-styloid, trans-scaphoid perilunate fracture dislocation (greater arc) with CT or MRI. These injuries are most often caused by…
Key Points Arthroscopic assistance allows direct visualization and correction of the reduction of intraarticular distal articular radius fractures A high percentage of concomitant scapholunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) and triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) lesions are diagnosed with this technique Arthroscopy allows…
Key Points The use of bone grafts or bone graft substitutes for treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures is dictated by tradition, training, and personal experience. The use of bone grafts (substitutes) for treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures does…
Key Points The mainstay treatment for displaced extra-articular distal radius fractures with limited metaphyseal comminution is closed reduction and plaster immobilization. However, not all patients benefit. Carpal alignment and coronal plane translation are less familiar parameters to surgeons but important…