Classification of Distal Radius fractures - Chinmay Gupte 28/11/2000

Background

Criteria for good classification : [1] clear and simple [2] stratifies severity [3] relates to prognosis [4] relates to management                                        [5] good interobserver and intraobserver reproducibility

Distal radial classifications: >12 classifications exist;

4 general principles on which classifications based:

[1] Extent of comminution
eg Gartland and Werley, Jenkins, Older

[2] radiographic appearance or Degree of displacement
eg Lidstrom, Universal, Comprehensive (AO)

[3] Articular joint involvement
eg Frykmann, Melone, Mayo, Jupiter and McMurty

[4] Mechanism of injury
eg Castaing, Feranadez

Common Classifications

Older :                                                   

Type I nondisplaced

Type II displaced with minimal comminution

Type III displaced with comminution of distal radius

Type IV displaced with severe comminution of radial head

Comprehensive (AO)