wrist fracture
Definition
The wrist fracture is very common, the reflex during a fall being to cushion it with the hands. The clinical signs are significant pain, swelling and often deformation. The X-ray confirms the clinical diagnosis. The treatment is surgical in the event of displacement. If the fracture is not displaced, a simple immobilization in resin or by a splint can be sufficient.
Orthopedic treatment
In children or in adults in the event of a non-displaced fracture, the surgeon makes a resin immobilization or places a removable splint depending on age.
Surgical alternatives
The operations below take place in the operating room, under strictly sterile conditions.
Osteosynthesis by pinning
This is the surgical treatment for the vast majority of wrist fractures. The patient is placed on the operating room table. After the usual skin preparation in the operating room, the sterile drapes are placed Under radioscopic control, the surgeon reduces the fracture by manipulating the wrist by placing several pins percutaneously to maintain the reduction. Depending on the postoperative pain, the patient can return home the day of the procedure or the next day. The wrist is immobilized for 6 weeks, after which the osteosynthesis pins are removed. Rehabilitation to regain strength and the amplitude can then be started.
Plate and screw osteosynthesis
The patient is placed on the operating room table. After the usual skin preparation in the operating room, sterile drapes are placed. The incision is made on the anterior face of the forearm in its distal part, the surgeon reduces the fracture and stabilizes it by placing a screwed plate. The patient can return home the day after the operation. The wrist is immobilized for 6 weeks, rehabilitation to regain strength and amplitude can then be started.