- Smith's fracture
DiseaseDisorder infobox
Name = Smith's fracture
ICD10 = ICD10|S|52|5|s|50
ICD9 = ICD9|813.41
A Smith's fracture, also sometimes known as a reverseColles' fracture is a fracture of the distal radius caused by falling onto flexed wrists, as opposed to a Colles' fracture which occurs as a result of falling onto wrists in extension. Smith's fractures are less common than Colles' fractures.The distal fracture fragment is displaced volarly (ventrally), as opposed to a Colles' fracture which the fragment is displaced dorsally. Depending on the severity of the impact, there may be one or many fragments and it may or may not involve the articular surface of the
wrist joint .Eponym
This fracture is named after the
orthopedic surgeon ,Robert William Smith (1807-1873) in his book "A Treatise on Fractures in the Vicinity of Joints, and on certain forms of Accidents and Congenital Dislocations" published in 1847. [WhoNamedIt|synd|2150]Treatment
Treatment of this fracture depends on the severity of the fracture. An undisplaced fracture may be treated with a cast alone. A fracture with mild angulation and displacement may require closed reduction. Significant angulation and deformity may require an open reduction and internal fixation. An open fracture will always require surgical intervention.
References
External links
* [http://gentili.net/fracture.asp?ID=114 Radiograph of Smith's Fracture]
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