Galeazzi Fracture-dislocation

This fracture was first described by Ricardo Galeazzi in 1934. It is a fracture of the lower third of the radius and is associated with subluxation or dislocation of the inferior radio-ulnar joint.

Mechanism of Injury

This fracture occurs as a result of a fall onto the outstretched hand, with a superimposed rotational force.

Classification 

• Adult - fracture of the distal radius and dislocation of the ulnar head
• Children
• A - distal radius fracture at junction of the middle and distal third
• B - distal radius fracture
• C - greenstick bowing
• D - distal radius fracture with anterior bowing

Clinical Features

The distal radial joint is tender and the radius is shortened. The distal end of the ulnar is more prominent than usual.

X-rays define the fracture and show possible dislocation of the inferior radio-ulnar joint.