[Dorsal compression fractures of the distal radius metaphysis. Long-term follow-up with conservative therapy].

Conservatively treated compressed fractures of the distal radius dorsal metaphysis healed despite primarily good reduction and consequent treatment with a decrease in dorsal length. The amount of this decline depends on the primary loss of dorsal length. If the fracture showed a loss of dorsal length at the time of the accident of up to 2 mm, the long-term results were almost anatomical. If there was primarily a larger loss of dorsal length, a decline of the distal fragment into the dorsal cave resulted. Most of the dorsal length regained after reduction was lost when the cast was removed. The long-term follow-up examinations were made after about 9 years.