A Galeazzi-variant type fracture-dislocation in adults.

OBJECTIVE

Fracture of either radius or ulna with a dislocation either at the proximal or distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is not a common injury and is inherently unstable. Here we report a case series, with both-bone forearm fractures associated with dislocation of DRUJ, as a Galeazzi-variant type fracture-dislocation, and try to analyze 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 fractures 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 limited 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 dislocation 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 fractures is mandatory, followed by 3 to 4 weeks of immobilization in a cast for the healing of disrupted DRUJ.