Colles’ Fractures

Abstract

In 1814, Abraham Colles described a fracture about 2.5 cm proximal to the radiocarpal junction, causing a silver fork deformity of the wrist >(Fig. 33-1 A). The goal of treatment of Colles’ fractures is to restore radial length, joint congruity, and the distal radial angles visible on anteroposterior and lateral x-ray films. The majority of Colles’ fractures can be managed by closed reduction and protection. Occasionally, the reduction of Colles’ fracture cannot be achieved by closed methods because of soft tissue interposition, usually from the pronator quadratus muscle. Sometimes a Colles’ fracture cannot be maintained by closed methods after a satisfactory reduction due to an unstable fracture configuration. In a few instances, soft tissue interposition and unstable fracture configuration will present a combined problem (Figs. 33-2 A-K).