![]() Colles vs Smith’s FractureĪ Smith’s fracture is sometimes also described as a reverse Colles fracture. If you’ve been wondering, “what is a Smith’s fracture?”, then you may not be aware there are a couple of other injuries commonly confused with a Smith’s fracture. If the fracture has occurred in multiple places thus producing multiple bone splinters, a CT scan can identify the pattern of the fracture and help plan if surgical correction is required. Moreover, acute compartment syndrome is also associated with Smith’s fractures, a painful and dangerous condition caused by the build-up of swollen tissue in the area causing decreased blood flow, depriving the nerves and muscles of nutrients.ĭiagnostic imaging will help assess the severity and exact location of a fracture, whilst an X-ray will show the degree of angulation and displacement and can help assess carpal malalignment, carpal fractures, and associated soft tissue injuries. Some research suggests that up to 15% of Smith’s fractures also exhibit symptoms of acute carpal tunnel syndrome due to compression of the medial nerve. It is at this stage that the nerves and circulation of the forearm need to be assessed, it’s likely that they’re affected. The angulation of the palm is often affected too, however, this is difficult to detect visually. Smith’s fractures are most commonly experienced by young males who have a high impact fall or elderly females after a low impact fall, usually as a result of osteoporosis.Ĭommon scenarios for sustaining a Smith’s fracture are:Ī physical examination will usually reveal pain, swelling, a reduced range of motion and some disfigurement of the distal forearm. This type of injury is typically caused by either a fall on a flexed wrist or a direct blow to the back of the wrist. Now that we have an idea as to “what is a Smith’s fracture?”, it’s evident that this is a serious injury requiring proper management over time. ![]() So, if you suspect a Smith’s fracture, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible from a suitably qualified doctor, hand therapist, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist. The correct diagnosis and management of a Smiths’ fracture is vital to preventing loss of normal wrist function, which can have serious implications on the functional status of your hand and overall quality of life. It occurs as a result of a fall onto the palm of the hand, trauma that results in a volar (palm) displacement. So, What Is a Smith's Fracture?Ī Smith’s fracture is a fracture at the distal end of the radius bone in the forearm. ![]() What is a Smith’s fracture? And what is the difference between a Smith, Colles and Barton fracture? Within this article, we’re going to outline the different types of fractures and what each fracture requires for successful treatment.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |