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Types of Fore Arm Fracture – Classifications

Types of Fore Arm Fracture/The forearm is the portion of the upper extremity extending from the elbow to the wrist. The skeletal framework for this region arises from two primary osseous structures: the radius laterally and the ulna medially. These long bones serve as origins and insertions for many muscle groups allowing for normal physiologic dynamic movements. They also provide the supportive structure needed for the passage of neurovascular bundles between the proximal and distal aspects of the upper extremity. The extent of clinical pathology involving the anatomic osseous structures of the forearm includes conditions ranging from nondisplaced and displaced fractures to osseous tumors and malignancy.[rx][rx][rx][rx]

Types of Fore Arm Fracture

Common fractures include:

Dorsally displaced distal radius fractures (commonly referred to as “Colle fractures”) – One of the most common forearm fractures. It involves a complete transverse fracture of the distal 2 cm of the radius. The distal fragment is displaced posteriorly resulting in the classic “dinner fork” deformity. The etiology is usually a fall on an outstretched hand with concomitant hyperextension. The fracture site can often be comminuted, and avulsion of the ulnar styloid process is also a feature.
Reverse Colles fracture (Smith fracture) – A complete transverse fracture of the distal 2 cm of the radius with anterior displacement of the distal fragment. Usually secondary to a fall on a flexed hand.
Monteggia fracture – A fracture within the proximal third of the ulna with concomitant dislocation of the radial head.[rx]
Galeazzi’s fracture – A fracture of the distal third of the radius with accompanying dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint.
Barton’s fracture – An intraarticular fracture of the distal radius with concomitant dislocation of the radiocarpal joint.[rx]
Essex-Lopresti fracture-dislocation – Fracture of the radial head with dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint and rupture of the interosseous membrane.[rx]
Chauffeur fracture – An intraarticular fracture of the radial styloid process.[rx]
“Both Bone” forearm fractures – descriptive term to describe many different types of patterns involving fractures of the radius and ulnar shaft long bone

Incomplete fracture patterns of the forearm:

Isolated ulnar shaft fracture -(greenstick fracture of the ulna)
Isolated “buckle” or “torus” fracture pattern of the radius
- Seen in pediatric patients as a manifestation of a pathologic force compromising one cortex of the bone (resulting in compression on one side depending on the direction of the force)