About this disease
What it is about
The classic wrist fracture is an isolated fracture of the radius or a combined fracture of the radius and ulna. The fracture is common in both adults and children. On the one hand, a distinction must be made between isolated fractures of the radius and fractures involving the ulna. On the other hand, it is necessary to differentiate whether the fracture has joint involvement or not and whether and in what way the fracture is displaced.
Symptoms and consequences
Symptoms include pain, limitations in mobility, and deformity. The fracture can lead to functional restriction and even loss of function.
What we do for you
Examination and diagnosis
If a fracture is suspected, the wrist is first examined. This is followed by an X-ray. Depending on the assessability of the fracture in the X-ray image, a computer tomography is often also necessary.
Treatment
In the case of an undisplaced fracture, treatment can usually be carried out in a plaster cast. If the joint is involved and/or the bone is in a malposition, surgery must be performed. In this case, the bone is brought into the correct position and held in the desired position with screws and plates. Depending on the fracture, the wrist can be moved without load or it is also immobilized in a cast. After four to six weeks, weight-bearing can be resumed.