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. 2008 Jul;466(7):1705-9.
doi: 10.1007/s11999-008-0268-6. Epub 2008 Apr 29.

Galeazzi lesions in children and adolescents: treatment and outcome

Robert Eberl  1 , Georg Singer, Johannes Schalamon, Thomas Petnehazy, Michael E Hoellwarth
Affiliations

Galeazzi lesions in children and adolescents: treatment and outcome

Robert Eberl et al. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2008 Jul.

Abstract

A Galeazzi fracture is defined as a fracture of the radius associated with dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint. Treatment in children and adolescents is usually possible with closed reduction and casting. The objective of this retrospectively designed study was to describe all Galeazzi lesions treated at our department during a 3-year period. One hundred ninety-eight patients with displaced fractures of the radius alone or both bones of the forearm were reviewed. In 26 (13%) cases, a Galeazzi lesion was found and these patients formed the study group. Outcome was assessed using the Gartland-Werley score. Eight of 26 (31%) fractures were recognized initially and classified as a Galeazzi lesion. Casting after fracture reduction was possible in 22 patients. Thirteen patients were treated with immobilization in a below-elbow cast and nine with an above-elbow cast. Four patients were treated operatively. The results were excellent in 23 cases and good in three cases. In cases of distal forearm fractures, a possible Galeazzi lesion should be considered. However, proper reduction of the radius with concomitant reduction of the distal radioulnar joint and cast immobilization provides good to excellent outcome even if the Galeazzi lesion is primarily not recognized.

Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.

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Figures

Fig. 1A–B
Fig. 1A–B
In a 14-year-old boy with a Galeazzi fracture of the right arm, an (A) AP view and (B) lateral view at the time of admission show palmar dislocation of the ulna and a fracture of the radius in the distal third.
Fig. 2A–B
Fig. 2A–B
(A) An AP view and (B) lateral view are shown immediately after repositioning and plaster casting of the same patient as in Figure 1. The casting was done with a below-elbow cast.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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