Dorsal angulation of the distal fracture fragment is present to a variable degree (as opposed to volar angulation of a Smith fracture). The fracture appears extra-articular and usually proximal to the radioulnar joint. The plain radiographic series often comprises an AP and a lateral view however, it is not uncommon for an oblique view to be included. Plain films usually suffice, although if there is a concern of intra-articular extension, then CT may be beneficial. As such, in clinical practice, the use of the term Colles fracture with an appropriate description of any associated injuries is sufficient in most instances. One of the more popular is the Frykman classification system, although it fails to distinguish between Smith and Colles fractures as it is based on AP radiographs 2,3. Radiographic featuresĪ number of classification systems exist for distal forearm fractures. Most fractures are therefore dorsally angulated and impacted. The proximal row of the carpus (particularly the lunate and scaphoid) transfers energy to the distal radius, both in the dorsal direction and along the long axis of the radius. Most Colles fractures are secondary to a fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH) with a pronated forearm in wrist extension (the position one adopts when trying to break a forward fall). during contact sports, skiing, horse riding 1. Younger patients who sustain Colles fractures have usually been involved in high impact trauma or have fallen, e.g. The relationship between Colles fractures and osteoporosis is strong enough that when an older male patient presents with a Colles fracture, he should be investigated for osteoporosis because his risk of a hip fracture is also elevated 1. They are particularly common in patients with osteoporosis, and as such, they are most frequently seen in elderly women. The position of supination of the forearm and the freedom of motion of all joints seemed to reduce the swelling, stiffness, and incapacitation frequently found during active treatment of these fractures.Colles fractures are the most common type of distal radial fracture and are seen in all adult age groups and demographics. However, the degree of collapse was minimum. The proposed method did not prevent collapse of the fragments in all instances. This cast is changed a few days after application for an Orthoplast brace that permits motion of the elbow and volar flexion of the wrist while preventing pronation and supination of the forearm and dorsiflexion of the wrist. Based on this assumption, further supported by electromyographic studies, a method of treatment was developed which calls for the initial immobilization of the arm in an above-the-elbow cast with the elbow in flexion, the forearm in supination, and the wrist inmoderate ulnar and volar flexion. Such a position places the brachioradialis muscle, a strong flexor of the elbow and the only muscle attached to the distal fracture fragment, in an ideal physiological position to exert a deforming force on the fracture fragments. The classic position of immobilization of Colles' fractures with the elbow in flexion, the forearm in pronation, and the wrist in volar flexion and ulnar deviation is probably the main reason for the common and rapid recurrence of the original deformity.
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