Distal Radius Fractures: Classifications and Contemporary Treatment

Distal radius fractures are one of the most common fractures with a growing incidence in the active and aging population. The classification of these fractures is complex due to continued improvements in our understanding of fracture patterns, their injury mechanisms, and resultant patterns of instability. This complexity has led to multiple classification systems that have not been updated with contemporary knowledge on distal radius fracture patterns and their respective treatments. We describe historical classification systems, their strengths, and limitations, and discuss gaps that may be filled by a contemporary system.