Wrist fracture: fast and effective repair with extension device

How is a wrist fracture treated?

The treatment of a wrist fracture depends on how severe the fracture is and whether the bones are displaced. In milder cases, conservative treatment may be used, with the wrist immobilised with a plaster cast or splint. However, if the bone fragments are significantly displaced or the fracture is unstable wrist fracture surgery may be necessary for proper healing.

When do you need wrist fracture surgery?

• Conservative treatment vs. surgical procedure
  Conservative treatment can be used if the bones are stable in place. However, if the fracture is displaced, or if conservative therapy does not provide sufficient stability, then wrist fracture surgery is the only option to accurately repair the bones and regain full function of the wrist.
• The role of the extension device in the repair of broken bones
  An extensor device is a medical device that allows bones to be adjusted to exactly the right position without the need for open surgery. This reduces the risk of infection and allows faster healing.
• In which cases is surgery recommended?
  Surgery may be unavoidable if:
  • The bone fragments have shifted significantly.
  • It is a fracture involving the wrist joint.
  • After conservative treatment, adequate functional recovery cannot be ensured.
  In these cases, the purpose of wrist fracture surgery, to ensure proper stability of the bones and prevent long-term mobility problems.

Operation and benefits of the extension device

• How does it help to position the bones correctly?
  The extension device applies a gentle pulling force to the bones, helping to align them precisely. This allows the bones to heal in the best position, minimising deformities.
• Minimally invasive method for faster healing
  One of the biggest advantages of the extension device is that it does not require a large incision, unlike traditional wrist fracture surgery. This reduces surgical risks and allows for faster rehabilitation.
• Pain relief and mobilisation during treatment
  Minimising pain is an important aspect for patients. Pain is typically less during extensive treatment than with traditional surgical procedures. Appropriate follow-up, including post-fracture physiotherapy, is essential to restore wrist mobility and gradually regain muscle strength.

The healing time for a wrist fracture varies, but can be significantly shortened with the right treatment and physiotherapy. The use of an extension device is a modern and effective way to restore full functionality to the wrist.

How does the extension device work?

• The device exerts a gentle pulling force on the wrist to set the broken bones in the correct position.
• This procedure helps to minimise bone displacement and fixes the bones in the correct position before a definitive treatment (such as plaster or surgery) is applied.
• It is usually used for a few hours to a few days, until the bones are in the right position and the doctor decides on the next steps.

The picture shows different sizes of finger traction devices (extensor traction devices), which are used to align the bones in the right position in case of wrist fractures or other hand injuries. These devices are attached to the fingers by means of small hooks or special fixation straps, and the device is then attached to the extension stand, which provides a continuous pulling force. The braided structure applies even pressure to the fingers, thus promoting stable and gradual stretching.

What happens afterwards?

• If the bones can be stably fixed, then a plaster or splint is applied, to be worn for 6-8 weeks.
• If the fracture is unstable or cannot be adjusted properly, it wrist fracture surgery may become necessary.

The extension device is therefore a transitional device, which helps to align the bones accurately, but does not stay on the patient's hand for long.

Wrist fracture healing time - what to expect?

The healing time for a wrist fracture depends on a number of factors, including age, general bone quality, the type of fracture and the patient's lifestyle. Proper treatment and rehabilitation are key to full recovery. Physiotherapy after a wrist fracture speeds up the recovery time and helps restore full functionality to the wrist.

What factors affect the healing of a wrist fracture?

• Age, bone quality and fracture type
  In younger patients, bones heal faster because the regeneration process is more intense. In older age, especially if osteoporosis is present, healing may take longer. The type of fracture is also important: simple, non-displaced fractures regenerate more quickly than unstable or complex fractures.
• Impact of osteoporosis on healing
  The loss of bone mass means that the bones of patients with osteoporosis fuse more slowly and are at greater risk of further fractures. To compensate for this, it is important to have an adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium, and to have a bone-strengthening treatment under medical supervision.
• What lifestyle factors can help recovery?
  A balanced diet and adequate intake of vitamins and minerals are important. An active lifestyle, medical exercise after a fracture, and avoiding smoking and alcohol will all contribute to a faster recovery.

When can the extension device be removed after a wrist fracture?

• Average recovery time
  The healing time for a wrist fracture is usually 6-8 weeks, but this can vary from person to person. Simpler fractures will heal sooner, while more complex fractures may take longer to heal.
• Role of control tests and X-ray inspection
  During the medical check-ups, X-rays are taken to check that the bones have fused properly. The extension device can only be removed if the X-ray shows that the bone has regenerated stably.
• Duration of total bone regeneration
  Even if the bones fuse together in 6-8 weeks after the fracture, full bone regeneration and recovery of full joint functionality can take up to 3-6 months. Physiotherapy and active rehabilitation will help to restore range of motion to the wrist, minimising long-term limitation of movement.

Physical exercise after a wrist fracture - the key to a quick and full recovery

After a wrist fracture physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the overall recovery. It helps to avoid limited mobility, reduces pain and restores range of motion to the wrist. Performing the right exercises can significantly shorten the rehabilitation period.

Why is physiotherapy important after a wrist fracture?

• Avoiding joint stiffness and muscle weakness
  Prolonged immobilisation can cause joints to become stiff and muscles to weaken. Regular exercise can help to maintain wrist and hand strength and reduce restricted range of motion.
• Regaining range of motion and reducing pain
  With the right exercises, the range of motion can be gradually restored while pain is reduced. Physiotherapy helps to ensure the correct load is applied, thereby minimising the chance of further injury.

What exercises should you do after a wrist fracture?

1. Passive and active movements to strengthen the hand
   Initially, passive exercises (where the injured hand is moved with another hand) help to restore movement. Later, active exercises such as bending, stretching and tilting the wrist to the side strengthen the muscles.
2. Gradual restoration of the correct load
   Gradualness is key: from light movements at the beginning to helping with everyday tasks and then to more intense exertion. This will ensure a safe recovery.
3. The role of expert physiotherapist support
   The physiotherapy programme should always be set up by a specialist, taking into account the patient's individual condition. A physiotherapist can help to ensure that the exercises are done correctly and to avoid complications from incorrect loading.

Physiotherapy after a wrist fracture is therefore essential for a full recovery and to regain freedom of movement.

Wrist fracture treatment with a specialist - request a consultation!

Proper treatment of a wrist fracture is key to a quick and full recovery. At the Budapest Musculoskeletal Private Clinic (BMM) Dr. György Kocsis PhD an orthopaedic specialist who helps you to effectively treat your wrist fracture. In our practice in Bokor Street, Óbuda, we offer a fast and precise SOS service for immediate private orthopaedic treatment, and a management plan.

When should you see an orthopaedic specialist?

• If the pain or swelling does not go down
  If the pain does not go away after a wrist fracture or the swelling persists, this may indicate a complication. In this case, it is important to have the injured area examined by a specialist as soon as possible.
• If wrist movement remains significantly restricted
  Without proper treatment, the wrist can become stiff, which can affect daily life for months or years. A specialist consultation can help you develop a suitable rehabilitation plan.