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Upper Limb Fractures#
- Colles: Distal radius, dorsal displacement (FOOSH)
- Smith: Distal radius, volar displacement (reverse Colles)
- Monteggia: Proximal ulna + radial head dislocation
- Galeazzi: Distal radius + distal radioulnar joint dislocation
- Scaphoid: Fall on outstretched hand, anatomic snuffbox tenderness
Lower Limb Fractures#
- Pott: Bimalleolar ankle fracture, external rotation injury
- Pilon: Distal tibia into ankle joint, high energy
- Femur neck: Intracapsular, risk of AVN
- Intertrochanteric: Extracapsular, stable fixation
- Tibial plateau: Lateral compartment depression
Spine Fractures#
- Jefferson: C1 burst fracture (axial loading)
- Hangman: C2 pars fracture (hyperextension)
- Chance: Flexion-distraction, thoracolumbar
- Burst: Axial loading, comminuted vertebral body
Fracture Complications#
Acute: Hemorrhage, fat embolism, compartment syndrome. Chronic: Non-union, malunion, AVN, post-traumatic arthritis.
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References & further reading
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Revision history
- 19 September 2026 — Initial publication
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common fracture in elderly?
Hip fracture (femoral neck / intertrochanteric) is the most common fracture in elderly due to osteoporosis. Low-energy fall mechanism. Requires surgical fixation to prevent complications.
What is Colles fracture?
Fracture of distal radius with dorsal displacement and dorsal tilt. Caused by fall on outstretched hand (FOOSH). Classic dinner fork deformity on X-ray.
How are fractures classified?
By: (1) Pattern — transverse, oblique, spiral, comminuted, impacted, (2) Displacement — displaced, non-displaced, (3) Soft tissue — open (Gustilo), closed, (4) Bone involvement — simple, compound, pathological.
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