The Wrist Joint

Abstract

The most frequent fracture in this region, and perhaps the most frequent fracture in man, is the Colles fracture. In German this fracture is called “the fracture of the radius loco classico or loco typico” and in French “Pouteau-Colles fracture”. It is a compression fracture of the distal end of the radius with a dorsal and/or radial tilt of the articular surface and a variable degree of shortening of the bone. Most cases are treated conservatively, but serious disability may result if the reduction is inadequate or secondary displacement occurs, which may happen in some 50% of cases. The simple insertion of Kirschner wires percutaneously can be very helpful where there is instability (Fig. 73), but it does not prevent secondary displacement in every instance. This injury should not be considered trivial just because it occurs in elderly patients whose disability need not affect their work or their earnings.