What to expect from fracture fixation surgery for distal radius fracture

The surgeon restores the position of the wrist joint surface and stabilises the fragments through an incision. The chosen hardware depends on the fracture’s direction, stability, and involvement of the joint. A splint or dressing protects the area initially. Swelling, tenderness, bruising, and reduced finger or wrist movement are common early experiences.

The fingers often need regular gentle movement when permitted, while wrist loading waits until healing and follow-up assessment support it. A scar and temporary altered sensation near the incision can occur.

Keep the hand elevated when swollen, follow dressing instructions, and use prescribed pain relief as directed. Move the fingers, thumb, and elbow if your team advises this, but do not lift or grip forcefully with the affected hand. Keep the splint dry and attend checks for wound review and imaging.

Hand therapy can restore finger, wrist, and forearm movement, then build grip and practical use. Driving, work requiring lifting, and sport should wait until your surgeon or therapist confirms safe control and adequate healing. More detail is available in [Distal Radius Fracture](/conditions/distal-radius-fracture/) and [Fracture Fixation Surgery](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/fracture-fixation-surgery/).

Call promptly if the wound becomes increasingly red, hot, swollen, or wet, or if pain or fever is worsening. Seek urgent help if fingers become blue, pale, cold, severely swollen, newly numb, or difficult to move, or if chest pain or breathing difficulty develops.

Ask whether the fracture enters the wrist joint, which hardware is planned, how long the splint and lifting restriction may last, and when hand therapy should begin. Discuss wound care, driving, keyboard or manual work, follow-up imaging, and warning signs specific to your operation.