Isolated radius fracture (proximal)

Background

• Rare
• When occur, most are displaced
• Compartment syndrome is rare
• Occur from direct blow to forearm or FOOSH

Clinical Features

• Pain/swelling, deformity
• Point tenderness

Differential Diagnosis

Forearm Fracture Types

• Distal radius fractures
  • Colles' fracture
  • Smith fracture
  • Barton fracture
  • Radial styloid fracture
  • Distal radioulnar joint disruption
• Radia ulna fracture
• Isolated radius fracture (proximal)
• Isolated ulna fracture (i.e. nightstick)
• Monteggia fracture-dislocation
• Galeazzi fracture-dislocation
• Forearm fracture (peds)

Evaluation

• Require full evaluation of DRUJ stability
• Assess distal pulse, motor, and sensation
• Forearm x-ray 2-view

Management

• ED: Splint

Definitive

• Nondisplaced: cast immobilization
• Displaced: Internal fixation

Disposition

• Outpatient with orthopedic followup

See Also

Forearm Fracture