What is the treatment for a chronic fracture in wrist?
The treatment for a chronic fracture in the wrist depends on several factors, including the location and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient's individual health and preferences. Here are some options that may be considered by a healthcare provider:
Conservative Management:
1.Immobilization: This may involve placing the wrist in a cast or splint to stabilize it, allowing the fracture to heal naturally. Adjustments or changes to the cast or splint may be needed during the healing process.
2.Physical Therapy: This may be recommended later in the healing process to help restore the wrist's mobility, strength, and functionality. Gentle exercises and movements can be gradually introduced once the fracture is sufficiently stable.
3.Medications: Pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or stronger pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort and inflammation associated with the fracture.
Surgical Intervention:
1.Closed Reduction and Percutaneous Pin Fixation:
In certain cases, if the fracture is still movable or hasn't fully healed, closed reduction may be performed. This involves manipulating the bone fragments back into place and stabilizing them with pins inserted through the skin.
2.Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): If the fracture is complex or involves significant displacement of bone fragments, open surgery may be necessary. During ORIF, the surgeon directly accesses the fracture site, realigns the bone fragments, and fixes them in place using plates, screws, rods, or wires to promote healing.
The choice between conservative management and surgery depends on the specific circumstances of the fracture and should be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare provider. In most cases, non-surgical options are attempted first, if successful in promoting healing, surgery may be avoided