Unilateral, trifocal, diaphyseal fracture of the radius with ipsilateral mid-shaft ulna fracture in an adult: A case report

Abstract

Introduction. To the best of our knowledge, a trifocal, diaphyseal fracture of the radius associated with ipsilateral mid-shaft fracture of the ulna in an adult has not been reported in the literature to date. The AO classification system does not include such a fracture configuration. Case presentation. We report a case of trifocal, diaphyseal fracture of the radius with a mid-diaphyseal fracture of the ulna in a 53-year-old Caucasian, British, right-hand dominant woman involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle. The management of this rare fracture configuration is described and alternative treatment options discussed. Conclusions: We describe an unusual, complex fracture, which with prompt surgical treatment resulted in a rapid, full and satisfactory functional recovery for our patient. © 2011 Ibrahim et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.