Colles' fracture
What is the "prognosis" of Colles'?
If the broken bone is in a good position, a plaster cast may be applied until the bone heals. The alignment of the bone is out of place, and then it may be necessary to re-align the broken bone fragments with closed reduction of the wrist. Most Colles' fractures can be treated with a closed reduction and cast immobilization. Sometimes surgery is necessary with steels or titanium pins, plates, screws external fixation or even combining these techniques. There is pain for several weeks following realignment, but with physical therapy the prognosis is good
What is the "mortality rate" of Colles' in the United States?
The mortality rate is truly dependent on age and the possible complication of surgery. Typically death doesn't occur with a wrist fracture, it just may lead to other issues mostly age related.
What is the "prevalence" of Colles' in the United States?
Women over 65 years are at the highest risk for suffering Colles' fractures and over 7 times more than men as well as children between 6 and 10 years of age
Under which "causative agent" can Colles' are classified?
A fall and trying to catch oneself.
What is the "etiology" (causes) of Colles'?
Falling onto outstretched hands trying to catch oneself. If the person has osteoporosis the risk is greater due to fragile bones.
What is the "incidence" of Colles' in the United States?
It is the most common wrist fracture. It is about 75% of all forearm fractures.
What is the "official" definition of Colles'?
It's a transverse fracture through the distal inch of the radius. The distal fragment is usually angled dorsally or posteriorly on the shaft with impaction along the dorsal aspect.
Radiographically, how is Colles' portrayed on a general imaging study?
It's a transverse fracture through the distal inch of the radius. The distal fragment is usually angled dorsally or posteriorly on the shaft with impaction along the dorsal aspect. The external contour in the Colles' fracture display a dinner fork deformity.
Which classification is Colles'? Additive or Destructive
Neither additive nor destructive unless there is hardware within the break or the patient has some underlying disease such as osteoporosis. If there is a lot of swelling you may need to increase technique (additive), but not too much.
What is the "morbidity rate" of Colles' in the United States?
Women over 65 years are at the highest risk for suffering Colles' fractures and over 7 times more than men as well as children between 6 and 10 years of age.
