Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeon
FRACTURES | LAS VEGAS
Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas, Nevada
The distal radius forms the primary articular surface of the wrist joint and bears the majority of load transmitted from the hand to the forearm. Distal radius fractures are among the most common fractures treated by orthopaedic surgeons, typically occurring after a fall on an outstretched hand.
Dr. Andrew Lee at Nevada Spine Clinic and Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas evaluates each fracture individually to determine the most appropriate fixation strategy based on fracture pattern, bone quality, and patient goals.
Displaced distal radius fractures with significant shortening, angulation, or intra-articular involvement are typically treated with surgical fixation to restore wrist anatomy and allow early range of motion. Dr. Andrew Lee evaluates each fracture pattern at Nevada Spine Clinic in Las Vegas to determine whether surgical fixation will provide better outcomes than non-operative management.
Distal radius fractures requiring surgery are treated with volar plate fixation at Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas. Dr. Andrew Lee makes a small incision on the palm side of the wrist to access the fracture and applies a low-profile locking plate that holds the fracture reduced while allowing early wrist motion. The volar approach avoids the extensor tendons and allows reliable fixation even in comminuted fractures.
Recovery depends on fracture severity, fixation achieved, and patient factors. Dr. Andrew Lee at Nevada Spine Clinic in Las Vegas provides individualized rehabilitation guidance to optimize bone healing and functional recovery.
Weight bearing restrictions and activity timelines are determined at follow-up appointments based on fracture healing progress on imaging.
Pain decreases progressively as healing occurs over six to twelve weeks. Functional recovery continues for three to six months following surgery. Dr. Lee monitors healing with imaging at regular follow-up visits.
Most patients return to independent daily activity within six to twelve weeks, with full recovery over three to six months depending on fracture complexity and patient factors.
No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.
Follow all wound care instructions at discharge. Avoid soaking the incision in water until cleared by Dr. Lee. Pat the wound dry after showering and apply a clean bandage.
Monitor the incision for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage and contact Nevada Spine Clinic immediately if any of these occur. Prescription refills require forty-eight hours advance notice.
Follow the specific weight bearing restrictions provided by Dr. Lee. These are individualized to your fracture pattern and the fixation achieved at surgery. Do not bear weight beyond prescribed limits until cleared at follow-up.
Contact Nevada Spine Clinic or go to the nearest emergency room for fever, sudden increase in pain, inability to bear weight as previously tolerated, or wound concerns.
No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.
Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas
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