Colles Fracture

What is a Colles’ fracture?

A distal radius fracture with dorsal displacement of the distal fragment.

What mechanism causes a Colles’ fracture?

FOOSH (fall on outstretched hand).

Who commonly gets a Colles’ fracture?

Elderly patients, especially with osteoporosis.

What is the classic deformity seen in a Colles’ fracture?

Dinner fork deformity due to dorsal displacement.

What symptoms occur in a Colles’ fracture?

• Wrist pain

• Swelling

• Deformity

• Weakness.

What physical exam findings suggest a Colles’ fracture?

• Pain/swelling at fracture site

• Tenderness with prominent ulnar styloid

• Dorsally displaced distal radius

• Decreased ROM of fingers.

What associated injury may occur with a Colles’ fracture?

Ulnar styloid fracture.

What X-rays are used for a Colles’ fracture?

AP and lateral wrist views.

When should an elbow X-ray be ordered?

When swelling extends up the arm.

What imaging finding is classic for a Colles’ fracture?

Dorsal displacement of distal radius with “dinner fork” appearance.

What are treatment goals for a Colles’ fracture?

• Restore alignment

• Stabilize fracture

• Reduce pain

• Preserve function.

What is initial treatment for a Colles’ fracture?

Reduction followed by sugar tong splint.

What is definitive immobilization for a Colles’ fracture?

Short arm cast after swelling decreases.

What medications help manage pain in Colles’ fracture?

Analgesics (NSAIDs or acetaminophen).

When is orthopedic consultation required?

Displaced fractures, unstable fractures, or neurovascular compromise.

What complications may occur in a Colles’ fracture?

• Malunion

• Median nerve injury

• Decreased grip strength

• Post-traumatic arthritis.

What complication causes chronic wrist pain after a Colles’ fracture?

Malunion with persistent deformity.

What follow-up is required after a Colles’ fracture?

Repeat X-rays to ensure maintained alignment and proper healing.

What prevention measures reduce Colles’ fracture risk?

Fall prevention and osteoporosis management.

What conditions mimic a Colles’ fracture?

• Smith’s fracture

• Scaphoid fracture

• Wrist sprain.

What feature differentiates Colles’ from Smith’s fracture?

Colles’ has dorsal displacement

What feature differentiates Colles’ fracture from scaphoid fracture?

Scaphoid fracture has snuffbox tenderness without dorsal displacement.