Presentation
Motorcycle accident. Forearm deformity upon physical examination.
Patient Data
Age: 35 years
Gender: Male
From the case:
Galeazzi fracture-dislocation
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Forearm radiographs revealed a midshaft radial fracture associated with a dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint, in keeping with a Galeazzi fracture-dislocation.
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 clearly dislocated, but sometimes the injury may be more subtle. Some radiographic findings suggestive of a DRUJ injury are:
- ulnar styloid base fracture
- widening of the DRUJ
- dislocation/subluxation of the radius relative to the ulna on the lateral view
- shortening of the radius >5 mm