Smith's fracture

Smith's Fracture

Smith's fracture (pronounced: /smɪθs frækʧər/), also known as a reverse Colles' fracture, is a type of fracture of the distal radius of the wrist.

Etymology

The term "Smith's fracture" is named after the Irish surgeon, Sir Robert William Smith, who first described this type of injury in 1847.

Definition

A Smith's fracture is defined as a fracture of the distal radius with volar (or anterior) displacement of the wrist and hand. This is the opposite of a Colles' fracture, which is a distal radius fracture with dorsal (or posterior) displacement of the wrist and hand.

Causes

Smith's fractures are typically caused by a direct blow to the back of the wrist, often resulting from a fall onto an outstretched hand with the wrist flexed, or a direct blow to the back of the wrist.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a Smith's fracture may include pain, swelling, deformity of the wrist, and inability to use the hand and wrist.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a Smith's fracture is typically made through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays.

Treatment

Treatment for a Smith's fracture may include immobilization with a cast or splint, pain management, and in some cases, surgery. Physical therapy may also be recommended to restore function and strength to the wrist after the fracture has healed.

Related Terms

• Colles' fracture
• Distal radius fracture
• Wrist fracture
• X-ray

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Smith's fracture
• Wikipedia's article - Smith's fracture

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.

---

Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski