What is the most common type of distal radius fracture?
One of the most common distal radius fractures is a Colles fracture, in which the broken fragment of the radius tilts upward. This fracture was first described in 1814 by an Irish surgeon and anatomist, Abraham Colles — hence the name Colles fracture.
What 3 articular surfaces are important when evaluating distal radius fracture?
GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURE FIXATION The distal radius consists of three independent articular surfaces: scaphoid facet, lunate facet, and sigmoid notch.
What is a Smith’s fracture of radius?
A Smith fracture is a break to the end of the radius. The end part of the bone, which forms part of the wrist joint, is displaced or angled in the direction of the palm of the hand. Often, this injury occurs by a fall to the back of a flexed wrist but can occur in any fall to an outstretched hand.
What does AO in orthopedics stand for?
After the lecture, Müller and some of his closest colleagues agreed to create a school for surgical orthopedic techniques. It was agreed on that day that they would use the French name “Association pour l’Ostéosynthése”, shortened to AO.
What is a complex distal radius fracture?
Complex distal radius fractures are high-energy injuries of the wrist with articular disruption, ligamentous instability, significant comminution, soft tissue injury, and/or neurovascular impairment.
Do all distal radius fractures need surgery?
Not every patient needs to undergo a distal radial fracture surgery, but regardless of the treatment plan determined by your physician, the goal of the treatment is always to return the bone to its proper position and prevent it from moving out of place until it is sufficiently healed.
Does a distal radius fracture need a cast?
If the distal radius fracture is in a good position, a splint or cast is applied. It often serves as a final treatment until the bone heals. Usually a cast will remain on for up to six weeks. Then you will be given a removable wrist splint to wear for comfort and support.