Operative fixation of distal radius fractures is one of the most commonly performed orthopedic procedures. However, there remains little consensus on the indications for operative versus nonoperative treatment of these injuries. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has recently published clinical practice guidelines to help guide management of these injuries. The purpose of this paper is to review the biomechanical and clinical retrospective and prospective data pertinent to the indications for operative management of distal radius fractures. Conflicting data exists as to the optimal management of these injuries, especially in patients over the age of 55. Although there is some evidence to support operative fixation of distal radius fractures, better longterm, prospective, randomized studies with validated patient outcome measures are needed to definitively establish the optimal method of treatment for these injuries.