A Galeazzi-variant type fracture-dislocation in adults

Abstract

【Abstract】Objective: Fracture of either radius or ulna with a dislocation either at the proximal or distal radio- ulnar joint (DRUJ) is not a common injury and is inherently unstable. Here we report a case series, with both-bone fore- arm fractures associated with dislocation of DRUJ, as a Galeazzi-variant type fracture-dislocation, and try to ana- lyze this injury pattern. Methods: The study was based on 6 patients having Galeazzi-variant type fracture-dislocation of different age (20 to 45 years). All fractures were closed type. Two frac- tures involved the same level and three fractures were at different levels of radius and ulna shaft. After thorough examination and investigations they were treated with limi- ted contact dynamic compression plate without additional fixation for DRUJ. Results: All cases were followed up for 24 weeks. The maximum incidence occurred in age group between 31 and 40 years. All the fractures of both radius and ulna were united in average time of 12 weeks. Range of motion of wrist and elbow, supination and pronation at final follow-up were normal. There was no subsequent re-subluxation or dislo- cation of the DRUJ in any of the cases. Conclusion: Galeazzi variant in adult is a new undescribed pattern of forearm with wrist injury. Stable open reduction and internal fixation of both-bone forearm frac- tures is mandatory, followed by 3 to 4 weeks of immobiliza- tion in a cast for the healing of disrupted DRUJ. Key words: Dislocations; Radius fractures; Ulna fractures; Wrist injuries