[Internal fixation of the distal radius: Medical liability considerations]

Fixation of distal radius fractures is now the primary surgical procedure leading to medical liability claims for surgeons dealing with injuries to the upper limb. The main reasons for incrimination are complex regional pain syndrome and an unfavorable progression toward malunion. Infectious problems are relatively rare and, in general, well controlled. The associated capsule and ligament damage can be underestimated at the time of the initial assessment, which points to the need for complementary imaging in case of doubt. The prevention of claims inevitably requires a judicious choice of the fixation technique, which is adapted to the anatomical fracture type and to the patient. The best defense is a complete medical record, with emphasis on traceable information.