Classic Fractures: Colles', Reverse Colles', Snuff Box

Classic Fractures

Colles' Fracture

• A wrist fracture commonly resulting from a fall on an outstretched hand.
• Typically affects elderly patients due to the mechanism of injury involving extended wrists.
• Symptoms include significant swelling and deformity in the distal wrist area.
• Diagnosis is confirmed through plain x-rays, revealing fractures in the distal radius and ulna.
• Treatment may involve surgery; however, splinting and immobilization for about four weeks are often sufficient.

Reverse Colles' Fracture

• Occurs from a fall on a flexed wrist, differing from Colles' fracture.
• Typically results from direct impact on the wrist area while in a flexed position.
• Management mirrors that of Colles' fracture, often requiring splinting or surgery.

Snuff Box Fracture

• Involves a fracture of the scaphoid bone caused by a fall on an outstretched hand with wrist dorsiflexion.
• Pain and tenderness are localized to the anatomical snuff box located on the radial side of the wrist.
• Standard plain x-rays may not detect the fracture; MRI provides a more accurate diagnosis.
• Treatment generally includes thumb splinting, with surgery reserved for severe cases.

General Considerations

• Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring the healing process and ensuring proper alignment of fractured bones.
• Repeat x-rays may be used to assess recovery and detect any complications.