Alternative Names
Transverse wrist fracture; Dinner-fork deformity of the wrist
Definition of Colles’ wrist fracture
Colles’ fracture is a break across the end of the main bone of the forearm (the radius). A Colles’ fracture causes the wrist to become extended and shortened.
Review
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Unviersity of Washington School of Medicine; and C. Benjamin Ma, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 7/28/2010
