29 patients with displaced distal radius fracture were randomized in this cross-over trial comparing a vacuum-fitted orthosis and a plaster splint in postoperative rehabilitation. Following volar locking plate fixation, patients were randomized to one week orthosis wear followed by 3 weeks splint wear, or to one week splint wear followed by 3 weeks orthosis wear. Patient satisfaction and SF-36 scores were examined at 1 and 2 weeks after surgery, and range of motion and DASH scores were reported at 4 and 12 weeks after surgery. Aesthetics, handling, and hygiene were rated higher for the orthosis than the plaster splint, though no significant differences were noted in range of motion, SF-36 scores, or DASH scores.