Professional
Technical
IVT
Barton fracture
An intra-articular fracture of the distal radius with dislocation of the radiocarpal joint.
Full Definition
A Barton fracture is an unstable fracture-dislocation of the wrist involving the dorsal or volar rim of the distal radius articular surface. The fracture fragment remains attached to the carpus, which subluxates or dislocates along with it. This injury pattern requires surgical fixation to restore joint stability and prevent post-traumatic arthritis. The volar variant is more common and typically results from high-energy trauma.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify volar or dorsal when describing Barton fractures in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The operative report described open reduction and plate fixation of a volar Barton fracture." — Surgical report
- "Post-reduction films confirmed adequate alignment of the Barton fracture with restoration of radial length." — Imaging report
Also known as
Barton fracture-dislocation
Don't confuse with
Colles' fracture
Smith fracture