Upper limb: Forearm fractures Flashcards
describe the pattern of fractures usually seen in the forearm
due to ring formed by ulna and radius, often more than one fracture/dislocation occurs, i.e. at 2 points in the ring
what are fractures of the ulnar shaft also called
Nightstick fracture, due to many cases in the past caused by policeman’s truncheon(nightstick)
what other injury must be investigated in relation to ulnar shaft fracture
Monteggia injury
describe the balance between conservative and surgical management for ulnar shaft fractures
many dealt with conservative, although internal fixation(ORIF) may offer earlier return to function and reduce risk of non-union
describe how a diaphyseal fracture, of both bones of the forearm, is usually treated
requires internal fixation(ORIF) with plates and screws, and anatomic reduction
what is the role of anatomic reduction in diaphyseal fractures of both bones of the forearm
maximise function and prevent deformity
describe what a Monteggia fracture dislocation injury
when fracture of the ulna occurs with dislocation of radial head at the elbow
what investigation is indicated for ulnar shaft fractures in order to check for Monteggia injury
X-ray of elbow, as well as normal one of forearm
what treatment is required for Monteggia fracture dislocation injuries
internal fixation(ORIF), of ulna fracture, which should result in reduction of radio-capitellar capsule
describe what a Galeazzi fracture dislocation is
fracture of the radius with dislocation of the ulna at the distal radioulnar joint
what investigation must be used to clearly see Galeazzi injury, and is indicated in fracture of radius
lateral X-ray of wrist
what treatment is required for Galeazzi fracture dislocation injury
ORIF or radius is needed, should reduce the distal radial ulnar joint
