Galeazzi-equivalent injuries of the wrist in children

J Pediatr Orthop. 1993 Sep-Oct;13(5):561-6.

Abstract

Fracture of the distal radius with dislocation of the distal ulna, the so-called Galeazzi fracture, is uncommon in children. A variant, the "Galeazzi-equivalent fracture" involving a separation of the distal ulnar growth plate with displacement of the ulnar metaphysis was shown to be more common than the "classic" Galeazzi fracture in a 15-year review of this fracture pattern at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario. An analysis of outcome of 10 fractures showed less favorable results in the six Galeazzi-equivalent fractures compared to the four classic Galeazzi injuries, with one child sustaining a complete growth plate arrest of the distal ulna secondary to an equivalent injury. Recognition of the Galeazzi-equivalent fracture pattern is sometimes difficult. To define the various fracture patterns in an attempt to facilitate diagnosis and management, a classification of the Galeazzi injury complex in children has been devised. Reduction of all Galeazzi injury patterns is best accomplished with the forearm in full supination in an above-elbow cast.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / diagnostic imaging*
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Radius Fractures / classification*
  • Radius Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Radius Fractures / therapy
  • Ulna / injuries*
  • Wrist Injuries / classification*
  • Wrist Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Wrist Injuries / therapy