ABSTRACT
Distal radius fractures in elderly patients are very common with an estimated 80,000 occurring every year in the United States (1). The majority of these fractures are related to postmenopausal or senile osteoporosis and are the result of low-energy injuries, such as a fall from standing height. Low bone density has been shown to increase the risk of distal radius fracture (2). Osteoporosis also affects the treatment of distal radius fractures in several ways. It decreases fracture stability after closed reduction. In addition, fixation methods are dependent on bone quality. The approach to the management of distal radius fracture has undergone an evolution over the past two decades with an increasing percentage of osteoporotic fractures undergoing internal fixation due to the development of angular stable plate and screw fixation.
