Distal radius fractures with ulnar head and neck fractures

Abstract

Distal ulna fractures commonly occur with distal radius fractures. These combined injuries often have greater instability and are at risk for malunion and nonunion. Anatomic reduction of the distal radius with stable plate fixation is often the most helpful first step in treating these combined injuries. The ulna fracture can then be evaluated for alignment and stability and the need for additional reduction and fixation. Here we review the methods of fixation for these combined fractures as well as the outcomes associated with these techniques.