RT Journal
A1 TRUMBLE, THOMAS E.
A1 CULP, RANDALL
A1 HANEL, DOUGLAS P.
A1 GEISSLER, WILLIAM B.
A1 BERGER, RICHARD A.
T1 Instructional Course Lectures, The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - Intra-Articular Fractures of the Distal Aspect of the Radius*†
JF The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery
JO The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery
YR 1998
FD April 1
VO 80
IS 4
SP 582
OP 600
DO 
UL http://dx.doi.org/
AB 
    High-energy injuries frequently cause shear and impacted fractures of the articular surface of the distal aspect of the radius with displacement of the fracture fragments. Even fractures with a small amount of displacement can result in degeneration of the joint, causing pain and stiffness of the wrist. The fracture pattern, degree of displacement of the fracture fragments, and stability of the fracture determine whether operative treatment rather than immobilization with a cast is needed. The options for operative treatment include open reduction and internal fixation, to realign the articular surface of the radius; external fixation, for fractures with comminution of the metaphysis of the radius, to maintain the length of the radius; and bone-grafting, to provide support for the articular surface of impacted fractures.