Distal radius fractures

Background

Distal radius fractures

• Colles' fracture
• Smith's fracture
• Barton's fracture
• Radial styloid fracture
• Distal radioulnar joint disruption

Distal radius fracture eponyms

Eponyms	Description
Barton's	Fracture-dislocation of radiocarpal joint (with intra-articular fracture involving the volar or dorsal lip)
Chauffer's	Fracture of radial styloid
Colles'	Dorsally displaced, extra-articular fracture
Die-punch	Depressed fracture of the lunate fossa (articular surface)
Smith's	Volar displaced, extra-articular fracture

Clinical Features

Distal radius fracture demonstrating the deformity in the wrist.

• Forearm trauma and pain
• Possible forearm deformity

Differential Diagnosis

Forearm Fracture Types

• Distal radius fractures
  • Colles' fracture
  • Smith fracture
  • Barton fracture
  • Radial styloid fracture
  • Distal radioulnar joint disruption
• Radia ulna fracture
• Isolated radius fracture (proximal)
• Isolated ulna fracture (i.e. nightstick)
• Monteggia fracture-dislocation
• Galeazzi fracture-dislocation
• Forearm fracture (peds)

Disposition

• Most can be treated with orthopedic follow up within 1 week

Admit

• Open fracture
• Neuro-vascular compromise
• Risk or concern for compartment syndrome
• Patient is unable to function at home (e.g. uses walker with that arm)

See Also

• Forearm fractures

External Links

• https://www.orthobullets.com/trauma/1027/distal-radius-fractures