Broken wrist · internal fixation
Distal Radius Fracture Fixation
Surgical realignment and stabilisation of an unstable or displaced distal radius fracture, commonly using a plate and screws.
Diagnosis first Confirm the targetAlternatives compared Surgery is not automaticRecovery planned Protection and rehabilitation
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Fracture & trauma proceduresDistal Radius Fracture Fixation
What the procedure treats
A precise procedure needs a precise diagnosis.
Surgical realignment and stabilisation of an unstable or displaced distal radius fracture, commonly using a plate and screws.
ImportantThis guide explains a general surgical pathway. The exact technique and whether it is offered in a particular clinic or hospital require confirmation with Dr Arshad.
Common treatment targets
- Displaced or unstable broken wrist
- Joint-surface fracture
- Fracture that cannot be held acceptably in a cast
When surgery may be considered
Move from symptoms to a reasoned decision.
Surgery should have a clear target, a realistic expected benefit and a recovery plan that fits the patient.
Decision frameworkSymptoms → Examination → Tests → Options
- 01Alignment is unacceptable or repeatedly lost
- 02The joint surface is significantly displaced
- 03Open injury, nerve pressure or associated instability changes urgency
Alternatives and preparation
Compare what can be tried before surgery.
Some conditions need urgent repair; others allow time to compare protection, therapy, injection, observation or a different operation.
Pins or external fixation in selected patterns
Observation for stable fractures
Bring to consultationScans · nerve tests · medication list · prior injections · therapy reports · work and sport goals
Plan your assessment ↗Inside the procedure
Distal Radius Fracture Fixation: the key stages.
The operative details vary, but the purpose and protection strategy should be clear before surgery.
The fracture fragments are repositioned.
A plate, screws, pins or other fixation hold the alignment.
Associated joint, ligament or nerve issues may be addressed.
Anaesthetic and procedure day
A clear plan from arrival to discharge.
Local, regional or general anaesthesia may be used. Many hand procedures do not require an overnight stay, but complexity, injury and health factors can change the plan.
Before
Medication, fasting and transport instructions.
During
Anaesthesia, positioning and the agreed procedure.
After
Dressings, pain control, splinting and warning signs.
Recovery pathway
Protect healing, restore movement, then rebuild load.
These are stages, not promises of a fixed date. The surgeon and hand therapist adjust progression to the repair and response.
Elevation and finger movement
Wound and fixation protection
Progress wrist motion when stable
Strength and loading after bone healing
Recovery questions to answerWound care · swelling · splint · therapy · work · driving · gym · sport · travel
Benefits, limits and risks
Make an informed choice—not a rushed one.
The risk profile depends on the diagnosis, procedure, health and previous treatment. Dr Arshad will discuss the risks that matter for your case.
Possible considerations
- Stiffness
- Tendon or nerve irritation
- Loss of alignment or hardware symptoms
- Infection or post-traumatic arthritis
4.96/555 verified reviewsWhy consult Dr Arshad
Specialist hand and wrist assessment before committing to surgery.
Fellowship-trained consultant orthopaedic hand and wrist surgeon with UK specialist training and more than 17 years in orthopaedic surgery, seeing private patients at The Highfield Hospital, Rochdale, Greater Manchester.
Confirm the diagnosisCompare surgical and non-surgical optionsPlan rehabilitation around work and function
Meet Dr Arshad ↗Related procedure guides
Explore the same treatment family.
Related procedures may treat a different anatomical level or a different stage of the same problem.
Questions patients ask
Distal Radius Fracture Fixation FAQs.
General guidance only. The final procedure, hospital setting and recovery plan require individual clinical assessment.
Why might distal radius fracture fixation be recommended?+
It may be discussed when the diagnosis is clear, symptoms or structural damage remain significant, and the expected benefit is greater than suitable alternatives.
What anaesthetic is used?+
Local, regional or general anaesthesia may be used depending on the procedure, patient health, preference and hospital setting. The exact plan is confirmed before surgery.
Will I go home the same day?+
Many hand and wrist procedures are performed without an overnight stay, but this is not universal. Injury complexity, anaesthetic and health factors can change the plan.
How long is recovery?+
Wound healing, tissue healing, movement, strength and nerve recovery occur on different timelines. Your procedure-specific restrictions and goals determine the plan.
Could symptoms remain after surgery?+
Yes. Longstanding nerve or joint damage, stiffness, scar sensitivity, incomplete healing or another pain source can limit recovery. Expectations should be discussed before surgery.
Patient education referenceAAOS: Distal Radius Fractures
View source ↗Hand surgery · Greater Manchester
Need to know whether distal radius fracture fixation is right for you?
Request a specialist consultation and bring previous reports, scans, nerve tests and treatment information.