Which radiographic finding is characteristic of a Colles fracture?

Which radiographic finding is characteristic of a Colles fracture?

• A. Ulnar Styloid Fracture
• B. Volar Angulation
• C. Dorsal Angulation of the Distal Radius
• D. Radiocarpal Joint Dislocation

Answer: (C)

Colles fracture is a distal radius fracture that occurs when you fall on an outstretched hand with the wrist extended. The key radiographic finding is dorsal (posterior) angulation of the distal radius—the distal fragment is displaced backward, producing the classic dinner-fork deformity. On the lateral view you’ll see the distal radius tilted toward the back, while the AP view may show slight shortening of the radius. This dorsal angulation differentiates it from a Smith fracture, which has volar (palmar) angulation of the distal fragment. An ulnar styloid fracture can accompany it, but the defining feature remains the dorsal displacement of the distal radius.

Colles fracture is a distal radius fracture that occurs when you fall on an outstretched hand with the wrist extended. The key radiographic finding is dorsal (posterior) angulation of the distal radius—the distal fragment is displaced backward, producing the classic dinner-fork deformity. On the lateral view you’ll see the distal radius tilted toward the back, while the AP view may show slight shortening of the radius. This dorsal angulation differentiates it from a Smith fracture, which has volar (palmar) angulation of the distal fragment. An ulnar styloid fracture can accompany it, but the defining feature remains the dorsal displacement of the distal radius.