Description

Galeazzi described a fracture of the radius in 1934 that now bears his name.


 

Clinical features of the Galeazzi fracture:

(1) simple oblique or wedge fracture of the middle or distal third of the radius

(2) ulna diaphysis intact, with or without fracture of the ulna styloid

(3) dislocation (sprain) of the distal radio-ulnar joint (DRUJ) with instability

(4) dorsoradial angulation of the radius with clinical deformity and shortening of the radius

 

where:

• The pull of several muscles exert a force that causes the DRUJ instability - pronator quadratus, thumb abductors and extensors, and the brachioradialis.

 

Treatment requires surgery with reduction and internal fixation, with healing taking at least 6 weeks.

 


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