Wrist injuries.

Fractures of the carpal scaphoid account for 60-70% of all carpal injuries. This injury must be recognized early: scaphoid fracture should be suspected and treated until disproven on X-ray at two and four weeks. All displaced fractures must be reduced. Fractures of the distal radius are most commonly of two types: those with posterior displacement, and those with anterior displacement. Treatment is by closed reduction and splint or cast. Colles' fractures in young people take a great amount of force, therefore the complication rate is high. Hospital admission and months of rehabilitation are usually necessary. Colles' must be distinguished from Smith's fractures, which may be reduced by traction and must be observed for slipping.