Distal radius fractures are increasingly treated by internal fixation, but there have been relatively few studies relating to functional outcome at 12months or more. The aim of this study was to ascertain the patient reported function of the wrist at a minimum of 12months following fixation of a distal radius fracture, the time taken to return to work, and the complication rate. We conducted a retrospective review of 187 consecutive patients treated by a specialist hand and wrist trauma team at a tertiary referral unit over a 5year period. Mean age was 57.3years (range 16-93). Median time to surgery was 4days (interquartile range 2-9). Median follow up was 31months (interquartile range 23-41months). The median PRWE score was 3; (range 0-83). There was no difference in outcome in patients who had surgery delayed by greater than 2weeks (p > 0.05). The median time to return to work was 5weeks (interquartile range 1-8weeks). There were 15 complications (8%) including 3 tendon injuries. We have demonstrated an early return to work in patients who were employed, a low complication rate, and highly favourable functional outcomes at a mean of 30months postoperatively. We recommend the use of the DVR plate and involvement of a dedicated hand and wrist trauma team for treatment of unstable fractures of the distal radius.