S63.035

Clinical Causes: Falling onto an outstretched hand Motor vehicle accidents Sports injuries involving a fall or direct blow Crushing injuries from heavy objects Twisting or hyperextension of the wrist

Key Symptoms: Severe pain in the affected wrist Swelling around the joint Deformity or visible dislocation Limited range of motion Tenderness when touched Bruising around the wrist Weakness or an inability to move the wrist

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination by a healthcare provider, who will assess the wrist's deformity, swelling, and range of motion. Imaging tests such as X-rays are essential to confirm the dislocation's position and to rule out associated fractures or injuries. In some cases, advanced imaging like MRI may be used for detailed tissue assessment.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment methods focus on realigning the dislocated bones and ensuring proper healing. These may include: - **Closed reduction**: A non-surgical procedure to manually reposition the bones, usually performed under local or general anesthesia. - **Immobilization**: Application of a splint or cast to keep the wrist stable during healing. - **Pain management**: Use of medications such as analgesics to alleviate discomfort. - **Physical therapy**: Once the wrist stabilizes, exercises to restore mobility, strength, and function are recommended. - **Surgical intervention**: In cases where closed reduction isn't successful or if there are associated fractures, surgery may be necessary to secure the bones with pins, screws, or plates. Recovery times can vary depending on the severity of the dislocation and the treatment approach, often spanning several weeks to months. Following medical guidance is vital to ensure proper healing and to minimize the risk of chronic instability or arthritis.