A Case of Bilateral Galeazzi Fracture-Dislocations

Abstract

Bilateral Galeazzi fracture-dislocations are extremely rare injuries and only a few case reports have been described so far in the literature. Herein, we report the case of a 31-year-old bicyclist who sustained bilateral Galeazzi fracture-dislocations after a collision with a car. Both radial shaft fractures were simple (AO type 22-A2.3), at the same level (Type I: <7.5 cm from the joint line), and without severe comminution having their apex located dorsally. Internal fixation was accomplished in both fractures with an 8-hole, 3.5-mm locking plate; the stability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) was assessed with several intraoperative tests and found to be stable so that no additional stabilization was necessary. Postoperatively, the forearms were immobilized in a long forearm cast for four weeks. At the last follow-up evaluation, six years postoperatively, the patient was pain-free, had a full range of motion with a total Mayo wrist score of 95 in both wrists. Bilateral Galeazzi fracture-dislocations are rare injuries requiring proper radial fracture management and thorough assessment of DRUJ stability.