## Definition of Galeazzi Fracture **Key Point:** A Galeazzi fracture is a fracture of the distal third of the radius with disruption of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ), classically described as "fracture of the radius with dislocation of the ulna." ## Anatomical Components 1. **Radial fracture** — located in the distal third (typically within 7 cm of the wrist) 2. **DRUJ disruption** — the ulnar head is displaced dorsally (posteriorly) relative to the sigmoid notch ## Key Distinguishing Features **High-Yield:** Unlike Monteggia (which involves the ulna as the primary fracture), Galeazzi is a **radius fracture with secondary DRUJ injury**. The mechanism is typically a fall on an outstretched hand with the forearm in pronation. ## Comparison: Monteggia vs. Galeazzi | Feature | Monteggia | Galeazzi | | --- | --- | --- | | **Primary fracture** | Ulna (proximal/middle) | Radius (distal third) | | **Secondary injury** | Radial head dislocation (anterior) | DRUJ disruption (ulnar head dorsal) | | **Mechanism** | FOOSH + hyperpronation | FOOSH + pronation | | **Mnemonic** | Ulna fracture + radIO dislocation | **Radius fracture + Ulnar head dislocation** | **Clinical Pearl:** Galeazzi fractures are often missed because the radial fracture is obvious and the DRUJ injury is overlooked. Always assess DRUJ stability clinically and radiographically (compare to the contralateral wrist). **Mnemonic:** **GALE** = **Galeazzi = rAdius fracture + uLnar head (DRUJ) disruption** 
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