title: Decision making in distal radius fractures.
abstract: In distal radius fractures, function follows restoration of preinjury anatomic landmarks. The allowable deviation from these measurements is relatively small if optimal results are to be achieved, particularly in younger individuals. A hierarchy of treatment options--characterized by increasing invasiveness--exists for treating these injuries. As this hierarchy is ascended, treatment-related complications increase. It appears reasonable to select the least invasive treatment option capable of achieving satisfactory anatomic alignment. Hand and extremity function must be addressed early, and a conscientious effort must be exerted to avoid residual stiffness or the development of reflex sympathetic dystrophy.
authors.affiliation: Miller Orthopaedic Clinic, Charlotte, NC 28203, USA.
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Hutchinson
mesh_terms: D003100:Colles' Fracture / Q000145:classification / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D003663:Decision Trees; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008349:Manipulation, Orthopedic / Q000379:methods; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular