Fracture Kolles – Fracture of the distal radius

Gangs’ Fracture (Fracture, Distal Radius; Distal Radius Fracture; Transverse Wrist Fracture; Dinner-Fork Deformity of the Wrist)

Description of a fracture of the distal radius

Fracture Kolles – destruction of bone in the distal part of the radius. Radius – one of the forearm bones. The distal end of the bone is considered part of the wrist. Distal radius fractures are categorized by the following types:

• Open fracture – broken bone comes through the skin to the outside;
• Syntripsis – bone broken into more than two parts;
• Intra-articular fracture – broken bone within a joint;
• Extra-articular fracture – a broken bone does not affect the joints.

This description focuses on fracture of the distal radius bone. About fractures of other bones in the wrist, you can read articles on our site.

The reasons for the fracture of the distal radius

The most common cause of fracture of the distal is falling on an outstretched hand. Fracture can also cause:

• Direct blow to the wrist:
  • Road accidents;
  • Falling off the bike;
  • The fall when skiing;
• Other injuries.

Risk factors for a fracture of the distal radius

Factors, which can increase the risk of fracture of the distal radius include:

• Osteoporosis;
• Poor diet;
• Conditions, which increase the risk of falling:
  • Snow;
  • Ice;
  • Loss of agility or muscle strength;
• Advanced age;
• Postmenopausal;
• Reduced muscle mass.

Symptoms of a fracture of the distal radius

These symptoms, in addition to the fracture of the distal radius, They may be caused by other diseases. If you experience any of them, should see a doctor.

• Severe pain in the hand or wrist;
• Bruise;
• Swelling;
• The sensitivity in the wrist;
• Severe pain when moving;
• Problems moving wrist or arm;
• The unusual range of motion of the wrist.

Diagnosis of a fracture of the distal radius

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, including possible injuries, and perform a physical examination. You may be referred to an orthopedic surgeon, who specializes in diseases of bones.

Using X-ray images can be made hands or wrists.

Treatment of fractures of the distal radius

Healing takes a wrist fracture 6-10 weeks. The type of treatment depends on, where the bone is broken and how serious fracture.

Some fractures require repositioning. It means, the doctor changes the position of the bones before healing. Repositioning can be done by moving the hands of the doctor in the desired position, or by surgery.

The doctor may put in plaster at the fracture site. It can be removed after a few weeks, or substituted, in the case of weakening. In most cases, the gypsum is completely removed after six weeks.

In others, a splint or soft bandage may be used instead of a cast..

Medication

Your doctor may prescribe pain medicine or suggest taking painkillers light, otpuskaemыe without prescription.

Operation fracture of the distal radius

Fracture of the distal sometimes requires surgery. The surgeon first performs reposition bones, and then connects bones to further their healing. To connect the bones may be used the following methods:

• Plate with screws;
• Pins;
• External device, which holds the bones together.

After operation, You may need to wear a tire, to limit the movement of the hands.

Physiotherapy

You, probably, You will need to work with a physiotherapist. It will help you to restore range of motion and strength of the joint.

Prevention of fractures of the distal radius

To prevent fractures of the distal radius:

• Do not expose yourself to the risk of wrist injury;
• Eat a diet, rich in calcium and vitamin D;
• Train your muscles, to prevent falls and to stay active and agile.
• Keep safety in sports or at work.