Barton fracture is best described as which type of distal radius fracture?

Barton fracture is best described as which type of distal radius fracture?

• A. Intra-articular fracture of the distal radius with carpal displacement
• B. Extra-articular fracture of the distal ulna
• C. Fracture of the scaphoid
• D. Fracture at the base of the fifth metacarpal

Answer: (A)

Barton fracture is an intra-articular distal radius fracture that extends into the radiocarpal joint, with displacement of the carpal bones along with the distal fragment. The fracture involves the rim of the distal radius and causes the carpus to sublux or displace because the joint surface is part of the fracture. This radiocarpal involvement is what sets it apart from extra-articular distal radius fractures and from injuries to other bones like the scaphoid or the fifth metacarpal.

Barton fracture is an intra-articular distal radius fracture that extends into the radiocarpal joint, with displacement of the carpal bones along with the distal fragment. The fracture involves the rim of the distal radius and causes the carpus to sublux or displace because the joint surface is part of the fracture. This radiocarpal involvement is what sets it apart from extra-articular distal radius fractures and from injuries to other bones like the scaphoid or the fifth metacarpal.