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Why Use Plates in Wrist Surgery?

Wrist surgery is a procedure designed to repair injuries to the wrist joint between the hand and lower arm. Doctors may use plates during wrist surgery to stabilize fractures or to shorten the patient’s overall recovery time.

  1. The Facts

    • Doctors can repair simple fractures of the wrist by setting the bone in place and applying a cast, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) reports. However, more complex fractures may require surgery and aftercare for proper repair and healing.

    Uses

    • Doctors may place plates during wrist surgery to stabilize the fractured bone, according to the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH). They may also combine plates with screws to hold multiple bone fragments in place.

    Earlier Recovery

    • Use of plates in wrist surgery may make it possible for patients to gain earlier use of their hands and wrists, the ASSH reports.

    Additional Methods

    • Doctors may use other methods of stabilizing the wrist during surgery, including insertion of metal pins or the placement of a frame-like device called an external fixator, which is anchored to the bone from outside the body, the AAOS reports.

    Combined Approach

    • Doctors may also combine the use of plates with the stabilization methods listed above, the AAOS notes.

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