December 16th, 2014
How Do I Know If I Need Distal Radial Fracture Surgery?
Whether you are working, playing, or just going through your daily routine, your hands and wrists are vital to nearly everything you do. Because the hand, wrist, and forearm are made up of an interdependent network of ligaments, tendons, muscles, joints, and bones, when one part is injured, your use of the others is often also affected. For this reason, a distal radial fracture, also known as a wrist fracture, is an injury to address right away. In some cases, this fracture can be resolved non-operatively, while others require surgery. If you are asking yourself “How do I know if I need distal radial fracture surgery?”, the experts at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute can help you answer this question and more.
What is Distal Radial Fracture Surgery?
Before asking “how do I know if I need distal radial fracture surgery”, it is important to begin by understanding both the injury and the procedure. Your wrist is made up of eight small bones, called carpal bones, as well as the radius and ulna, the two long bones of your forearm. The bone most commonly fractured (broken) is the radius. So, if you are suffering from a distal radial fracture, this is a break at the end of your radius which connects to the wrist and hand.
Although most wrist fractures do not require surgery, it is necessary for some. If it surgery is required, it will most likely involve the use of one small plate and several screws to secure the bones in the correct position while they heal. An alternative approach may involve the use of pins to hold the bones in place.
How Do I Know If I Need Distal Radial Fracture Surgery?
When asking “How do I know if I need distal radial fracture surgery?” it is best to begin by talking with your doctor. For most wrist fractures, surgery is not necessary. However, some situations to require an operation. If your bones have shifted out of place or become fragmented and unstable, surgery may be required to hold them firmly in place. Additionally, if the injury includes the joint at all, a surgical procedure may be the best approach.
Where Should I Turn?
If you have asked your doctor “How do I know if I need distal radial fracture surgery” and he or she has explained why the procedure is right for you, the next step is to find the right orthopaedic surgeon. If you live in or around Philadelphia, the choice is clear; turn to Rothman Orthopaedic Institute for experienced surgeons and outstanding service. Because our hand and wrist surgeons specialize in this particular area of the body, they have a unique depth of understanding and expertise when it comes to distal radial fracture surgery.
For more information about our hand and wrist treatments, please contact us today.