Galeazzi fracture

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A Galeazzi fracture is defined as damage in the radius between the middle region of the radius and wrist. A fracture can be partial or complete. In most cases, it also involves the dislocation of the ulna at the wrist.

Am I injured?

An individual with a Galeazzi fracture has a crooked forearm. With this form of fracture, it can cause intense pain and there is difficulty moving the arm. It can be accompanied by pain or tingling on the affected arm and in the hand.

Bruising might also form around the site. If the break is severe enough, the bone might pierce through the skin. In such instances, the injury is managed as a medical emergency.

Galeazzi fracture
An individual with a Galeazzi fracture has a crooked forearm.

What are the causes?

One of the usual causes of a Galeazzi fracture are falls. An individual who extends out an arm for protection before striking the ground is at risk for damaging the bone in the arm or wrist. The impact can also dislocate the ulna.

Any form of blunt trauma such as vehicular accidents can also cause the fracture. Both adults and children who engage in contact sports or recreational activities such as rock climbing is at risk.

Management of a Galeazzi fracture

In most cases, a Galeazzi fracture requires surgical intervention except if the child is the victim. The common used surgical procedure carried out is open reduction. During the procedure, the bones are realigned and secure with screws and a plate to promote proper healing. A splint or cast is placed on the wrist for added comfort and secure the forearm and wrist as it heals.

At home, the arm should not be bumped or jarred and avoid lifting any heavy objects. Even if the individual starts to feel better, he/she must be careful not to re-injure the arm. After surgery, avoid lifting weights for at least 6 weeks after the procedure.

Apply an ice pack on the injury if the skin is not broken. It is vital to keep the arm in a raised position for several days after treatment. This aims on reducing the pain and swelling.

Disclaimer / More Information

The information posted on this page on a Galeazzi fracture is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize the signs of this injury, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Saskatoon, Victoria, Surrey, Mississauga, Winnipeg, Red Deer, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.

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