A Galeazzi fracture is characterized by which of the following injury patterns?

Explanation

## Galeazzi Fracture: Definition and Key Features **Key Point:** A Galeazzi fracture is a fracture of the distal radius (typically in the distal third) combined with disruption of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). This is a "reverse Monteggia" in terms of location but involves the DRUJ rather than radial head dislocation. ### Anatomical Components | Feature | Details | |---------|----------| | **Primary injury** | Fracture of the distal third of the radius | | **Secondary injury** | Disruption of the DRUJ (may be dislocation or ligamentous injury) | | **Mechanism** | Fall on outstretched hand (FOOSH) with forced supination, or direct blow to radial side of forearm | | **Frequency** | Less common than Monteggia; accounts for ~5% of forearm fractures | | **Stability** | Inherently unstable due to DRUJ involvement | ### Why This Is High-Yield **High-Yield:** Galeazzi fractures are frequently tested in NEET PG because they are often missed or mismanaged. The DRUJ disruption is the critical feature that determines treatment (often requires surgical fixation). **Mnemonic:** **GARD** = **G**aleazzi = **A**nterior (or disrupted) **R**adioulnar joint at the **D**istal end ### Clinical Pearl **Clinical Pearl:** On radiographs, look for widening of the DRUJ space or dorsal displacement of the ulnar head. The ulna may appear relatively longer than the radius (positive ulnar variance) due to radial shortening from the fracture. ### Key Distinction from Monteggia | Feature | Monteggia | Galeazzi | |---------|-----------|----------| | **Bone fractured** | Ulna (proximal/middle third) | Radius (distal third) | | **Joint involved** | Proximal radioulnar joint (radial head dislocation) | Distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ disruption) | | **Mechanism** | Pronation injury | Supination injury | | **Frequency** | More common | Less common | **Warning:** Do not confuse Galeazzi with Monteggia — they are opposite ends of the forearm and involve different joints.