Symptoms
Contrary to popular belief, the symptoms of wrist fractures are not different from the symptoms of sprains. The most common symptoms are swelling on the wrist and pain felt with movement or while stationary. In radius fractures, a dinner fork deformity may occur in the wrist. This deformity is not seen in small bone fractures.
What to do if a fracture is suspected?
The wrist should be supported from the bottom with cardboard or a piece of wood and try to be immobilized. After reducing the swelling by applying ice to the swollen area, the nearest healthcare facility should be visited.
Diagnosis
Determining the right course of treatment depends on factors such as whether or not the fracture is displaced or segmental. The age, general health condition, occupation of the patient, and a preexisting condition of calcification in the wrist are also important factors in this decision.
Treatment
Treatment with a cast is possible in stable and non-segmental fractures. However, the fractures that are not stable but segmental will mostly require surgery. External or internal fixation methods can be used for surgery. In external fixation, plates can be placed to form a bridge between the hand and the forearm. Additionally, fractures can be reattached using screws. Plates can also be used for internal fixation. Sometimes a wrist arthroscopy can be performed for treatment. The method of treatment to be used will be decided by your doctor. On occasions when there is a gap in between the fracture ends, a graft may be needed. This graft is made by taking a piece of bone from another part of your body, frequently from the hip area.
After surgery, as the fracture continues to heal, moving the fingers may ease the swelling and help with the physical therapy in the later stages. Thus, after the surgery, the fingers should be moved open as much as possible. When the fracture starts healing, wrist movements can also begin. Your doctor will decide the period needed before starting to move the wrist. The fracture takes four to eight weeks to heal. As wrist fractures are joint fractures, some patients may experience restriction of motion, calcification and pain in the fractured area.
Негізгі бет WRIST FRACTURES
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