Which fracture is a common fracture of the distal radius?

• A. Smith fracture
• B. Barton fracture
• C. Colles fracture
• D. Hutchinson fracture

Answer: (C)

Colles fracture is the common distal radius fracture. It occurs when a person falls on an outstretched hand, especially older adults with osteoporosis, causing the distal radius to break with dorsal (posterior) displacement of the fragment and a dinner fork deformity of the wrist. This dorsal tilt and typical location distinguish it from other distal radius injuries, such as fractures with volar displacement, intra-articular rim fractures, or radial styloid involvement. On X-ray, you’ll see dorsal angulation of the distal fragment and often reduced radial height. Management ranges from immobilization in a cast to reduction and fixation if the fracture is unstable or involves the joint.