Fracture Care · Elbow, forearm & wrist
Distal radius (wrist) fracture
Distal Radius Fracture (Broken Wrist) — Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
The condition
The radius is the larger forearm bone, and its end near the wrist forms most of the wrist joint. A distal radius fracture is a break in this area, often from a fall on an outstretched hand. If the bone is out of place, unstable, or broken into the joint, it can heal crooked and cause pain, stiffness, weakness, and arthritis.
The surgery
Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is a typically outpatient surgery done through an incision, usually on the palm side of the wrist. The broken pieces are put back in place and held with a small metal plate and screws. Depending on what is found, additional pins or screws may be used. The final plan is determined during surgery.
Recovery at a glance
- Splint & brace
- Splint for about 2 weeks, then a removable brace until about 6 weeks. Finger motion right away; wrist motion at about 2 weeks.
- Daily life
- Light hand use (about 1–2 lb, like a coffee cup) from about 2 weeks; most daily activities and light work by about 6–12 weeks. No driving while taking narcotic pain medication.
- Bone healing
- Healing is typically confirmed on X-ray around 6 weeks. Strengthening and gradual weight-bearing through the wrist follow (about 10–12 weeks if the break extends into the joint).
- Activity
- Non-impact sports after about 3 months; contact sports typically 3–4 months, after strength testing and surgeon clearance.
A general guide. Your restrictions and timeline may change based on what is found and done at surgery.
Risks & benefits
Benefits: Restoring alignment gives you the best chance of regaining wrist motion, strength, and function. Risks are uncommon and include infection, blood clots, delayed or failed bone healing, loss of alignment, hardware or tendon irritation that may require hardware removal (rarely tendon rupture), finger numbness or tingling, complex regional pain syndrome (excessive pain and swelling), injury to nearby structures (such as nerves, blood vessels, or cartilage), stiffness, persistent pain, and the need for further surgery. These will be reviewed with you in detail before surgery.
Patient Surgical Information
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Before & after every surgery