J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2013 Apr;48(2):165-174. 10.4055/jkoa.2013.48.2.165.

Complications of Distal Radius Fracture

• Kang JW
• Park JW

• KMID: 1424112
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.2013.48.2.165

Abstract

Fracture of the distal radius is one of the most common fractures encountered in the emergency room. Although selection of a proper treatment modality is important for successful management of this fracture, early detection, prevention, and adequate treatment for its complications is also important. Complications associated with fracture of the distal radius can occur at any time during the treatment process and the prevalence rate is up to 27% of all distal radius fractures. This article provides a review of possible complications associated with distal radius fracture, along with a discussion of prevention and appropriate treatment methods.

Keyword

distal radius fracture; complication

MeSH Terms

Emergencies
Prevalence
Radius
Radius Fractures

Figure

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  Figure 1 In cases of extensor pollicislongus tendon rupture after volar plate fixation (A, B), transfer of the extensor indicisproprius can restore thumb function (C).

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  Figure 2 Volar distal radius plate fixed distal to the watershed line (A; arrow) can irritate the overlying flexor tendons and delayed tendon rupture can occur (B).

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  Figure 3 Delayed carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by malunited distal radius fracture (arrow).

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  Figure 4 The proximal pins of the external fixator may injure the superficial radial nerve (A, B). After neuroma excision (C), the vein graft is applied for reconstruction of the nerve defect (D).

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  Figure 5 Intra-articular screw protrusion can result in severe intra-articular injury (arrow).

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  Figure 6 In case of a typical malunited distal radius fracture (A), radial shortening, loss of volar tilting and radial inclination, and dorsal subluxation of the ulnar head can limit forearm rotation (B).

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  Figure 7 Pin-site infection can be treated with local wound care and oral or intravenous antibiotics, or local debridement in addition to pin removal.

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