Colles Fracture, also known as a distal radius fracture, is a common break in the forearm that occurs near the wrist joint. The word "Colles" is spelled /ˈkɒliːz/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the first syllable pronounced like "col" and the second syllable like "lees". This fracture is named after Abraham Colles, an Irish surgeon who first described the injury in 1814. It typically occurs in individuals over the age of 50 and is often the result of a fall on an outstretched hand.
Colles fracture, also known as a distal radius fracture, is a common bone injury primarily affecting the forearm. It involves a break in the radius bone, which is one of the two long bones located in the forearm. More specifically, it occurs at the distal end of this bone, closer to the wrist.
Typically, a Colles fracture is caused by a fall on an outstretched hand, with the individual attempting to brace themselves during the fall. The impact leads to a sudden force being transmitted to the radius bone, causing it to break. This fracture is more prevalent in older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, due to changes in bone density associated with aging.
Characteristically, a Colles fracture results in symptoms such as pain, swelling, tenderness, and deformity in the wrist area. The broken bone may present a visible bump or displacement, hence the term "dinner fork deformity" due to the resemblance of a fork bent backward. A medical diagnosis is made through a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests like X-rays.
Treatment for a Colles fracture typically involves immobilization of the affected wrist using a cast or splint to allow for healing. In some cases, especially if the bone fragments are severely displaced, surgical intervention may be required to realign the bone and stabilize it with screws, plates, or pins. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are also often recommended to restore strength, range of motion, and functionality to the injured wrist. Overall, the prognosis for a Colles fracture is usually favorable, and most patients achieve near-normal recovery with proper medical care and rehabilitation.
The term "Colles fracture" is derived from the name of Abraham Colles, an Irish surgeon who first described the particular type of wrist fracture now known as Colles fracture in 1814. He provided a detailed account of the fracture site, mechanism of injury, and its unique characteristics. As a tribute to his significant contribution to the understanding of this fracture pattern, it was named after him.