Late

Possible late complications include:

• mal-union (1)
  • is common
  • the reduction may have been incomplete or displacement overlooked
  • disability may be minor but unsightly deformity may be more of a problem
  • surgical correction may be indicated
    
    
• non-union of the ulnar styloid process (1)
  
• rupture of extensor pollicis longus (2)
  • due to either movement across a sharp edge of bone or if displacement is minimal, probably, ischaemia
  • usually treated by tendon transfer using one of the extensors of the index finger
    
    
• stiffness (1)
  • from inadequate exercise and / or prolonged splintage
  • may affect the wrist or the shoulder

Reference

1. Jupiter JB, Fernandez DL. Complications following distal radial fractures. Instr Course Lect. 2002;51:203-19.
2. Roth KM, Blazar PE, Earp BE, et al. Incidence of extensor pollicis longus tendon rupture after nondisplaced distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am. 2012 May;37(5):942-7.