Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Galeazzi fracture
Fracture of the radial shaft with dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint.
Full Definition
A specific forearm injury pattern consisting of a fracture of the radius shaft combined with disruption or dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). In pediatric patients, this injury is less common than in adults but requires careful evaluation to identify the DRUJ involvement, which may be subtle on radiographs. The injury mechanism typically involves a fall on an outstretched hand with the forearm in extension. Treatment usually requires operative fixation to restore radius length and alignment, thereby reducing the DRUJ.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize 'Galeazzi' as it derives from the surgeon's name.
In Context
- "The radiographs demonstrated a Galeazzi fracture with obvious DRUJ disruption." — Radiology report
- "Operative fixation was required to address the unstable Galeazzi fracture pattern." — Surgical planning note
Also known as
fracture of necessity
Galeazzi lesion
Don't confuse with
Monteggia fracture