Presentation
Motorcycle accident. Obvious forearm deformity upon inspection.
Patient Data
Forearm radiographs revealed a distal radial fracture associated with a dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) as evident by the widening of the DRUJ, in keeping with a Galeazzi fracture-dislocation.
Also, there is an associated fracture of the ulna shaft.
The lateral view was not available.
Case Discussion
Galeazzi fracture-dislocations are described as distal half radial fractures associated with a disruption of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ).
Unlike isolated radial fractures, a Galeazzi fracture in an adult demands operative management.
In the present case, the DRUJ is indicated by the widening of the DRUJ. Some other radiographic findings suggestive of a DRUJ injury are:
- ulnar styloid base fracture
- dislocation/subluxation of the radius relative to the ulna on the lateral view
- shortening of the radius >5 mm