Distal radius fractures: tips to prevent complications and management if they occur

Philadelphia

Background: Distal radius fractures are among the most common injuries in orthopaedics, accounting for one-sixth of all fractures. As a result most orthopaedics treat this injury in their practice and knowledge of how to reduce complications is vital. Complication rates have been reported from 6% to 80%. When selecting the best treatment option, recognition of potential complications, preventive strategies and management of complications ensure optimal patient outcomes. The purpose of this exhibit is to educate orthopaedic surgeons on potential complications of distal radius fractures and provide tips to prevent these complications. Materials and Methods: A thorough literature review of non operative and operative complications of distal radius fractures, techniques that can mitigate complications, and how to treat the complications once they occur. We will also expand existing guidelines with the most current research and developments. Results: The exhibit will address 1) An overview of the different type of distal radius fractures 2) Prevention and management of complications associated with non operative management 3) Prevention and management of complications associated with volar plating 4) Prevention and management of complications associated with dorsal plating 5) Prevention and management of complex regional pain syndrome 6) Prevention and management of malunions, infection, tendon, nerve injuries, arthritis, and symptomatic hardware. Discussion: Advances in the treatment of distal radius fractures has led to steady improvements in patient outcomes over the past few decades. Updating orthopaedic surgeons with new research and guidelines on how to prevent and treat complications in a comprehensive manner is crucial to maintaining this positive trend.