Colles fracture vs Smith fracture
Colles fracture
Definition
Fracture of the distal radius with dorsal (posterior) displacement and angulation of the distal fragment.Mechanism of injury
Fall on an outstretched hand with the wrist in extension.Deformity
Classic “dinner-fork” or “silver-fork” deformity due to dorsal tilt.Common patient group
Elderly patients, especially postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.Associated features
Radial shortening, dorsal comminution, possible ulnar styloid fracture.
Smith fracture
Definition
Fracture of the distal radius with volar (palmar) displacement and angulation of the distal fragment.Mechanism of injury
Fall on the back of the hand or fall with the wrist in flexion.Deformity
“Garden-spade” deformity due to volar tilt.Common patient group
Less common than Colles, seen in younger patients or high-energy trauma.Associated features
Greater instability and higher risk of complications compared to Colles fracture.
Key differences at a glance
| Feature | Colles fracture | Smith fracture |
|---|---|---|
| Direction of displacement | Dorsal | Volar |
| Wrist position at injury | Extension | Flexion |
| Deformity | Dinner-fork | Garden-spade |
| Frequency | Common | Rare |
| Stability | Relatively stable | More unstable |
Why Smith fracture is considered more dangerous
Smith fractures have a higher tendency for displacement, malunion, and neurovascular complications because the volar cortex is weaker and harder to stabilize.

Comments
Post a Comment