Which fracture involves dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint with fracture of the distal radius?

Which fracture involves dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint with fracture of the distal radius?

• A. Monteggia
• B. Colles
• C. Smith
• D. Galeazzi

Answer: (D)

Recognizing fracture patterns by the joint involved helps distinguish these injuries. In a Galeazzi fracture, there is a fracture of the distal radius with disruption or dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). This combination defines Galeazzi and explains why the DRUJ becomes unstable after the radius breaks. It differs from a Monteggia fracture, where the ulna is fractured with dislocation of the radial head at the proximal radioulnar joint, not the distal DRUJ. It also differs from Colles and Smith fractures, which are fractures of the distal radius alone with dorsal or volar tilt but without the DRUJ dislocation. Therefore, the scenario described—fracture of the distal radius with DRUJ dislocation—fits the Galeazzi pattern.

Recognizing fracture patterns by the joint involved helps distinguish these injuries. In a Galeazzi fracture, there is a fracture of the distal radius with disruption or dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). This combination defines Galeazzi and explains why the DRUJ becomes unstable after the radius breaks. It differs from a Monteggia fracture, where the ulna is fractured with dislocation of the radial head at the proximal radioulnar joint, not the distal DRUJ. It also differs from Colles and Smith fractures, which are fractures of the distal radius alone with dorsal or volar tilt but without the DRUJ dislocation. Therefore, the scenario described—fracture of the distal radius with DRUJ dislocation—fits the Galeazzi pattern.