Wrist Fracture Surgery

While many people can recover from wrist fractures with nonsurgical methods, such as rest, ice, elevation, and wearing casts, there are times when fractures are too severe and surgery is needed.  Wrist fracture treatment, whether nonsurgical or surgical, is usually determined on a case-by-case basis after considering age, ability to heal, bone health, the location of the fracture, as well as the alignment of the bones.

If the wrist fracture is severe, a wrist surgeon may recommend wrist fracture surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision and then conjoin pieces of broken bone. This will keep fragments together until the bone heals from the fracture.

After surgery, swelling may occur, and ice will need to be applied to your wrist to reduce inflammation. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be prescribed. Once swelling has gone down, the wrist doctor may advise light stretching exercises to keep the wrist flexible and mobile. After several months, the wrist should heal and regain normal function.