Dr. Steven Rueda is one of the most sought after doctors for wrist fractures in Palm Beach. Wrist fractures are injuries that result after breaking of one of the bones in the wrist. These wrist injuries typically occur after trauma and can be very distressful to patients. The fractures are most common in young active patients and older age groups with osteoporosis.
WHAT CAUSES WRIST FRACTURES?
The wrist has a total of 10 bones; two bones at the end of the forearm (radius and ulna), as well as those bones that help the wrist bend up and down called carpal bones. Any one of these bones can be broken in wrist fractures, but the radius is the most common of all. The goal of treatment is to allow the bones to heal to achieve a pain free and mobile wrist.
WRIST FRACTURES PROCEDURE
Surgery can fix fractures with many different types of methods: plates and screws, wires, and pins. The goal of surgery is to use methods that allow the bones to remain in place and the patient to move their joints the fastest possible.
Incisions for wrist fracture procedures are highly variable; its best to discuss the independent procedure with Dr. Rueda at the time of your visit so you know the location, length, and details of the operation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No! It is important to see the Hand Surgeon within the first week of the fracture. When fractures are older than 2 weeks the bones may have started to heal in the wrong position making the surgery longer, more difficulty, and with a lower success rate. The bone may need to be re-broken at the time of a delayed surgery.
Casting is only advised for patients who have stable fractures or those unable to have surgery for health reasons. Inappropriate use of a cast may lead to bones that heal in bad position and limited function of the wrist.