This is a common fracture in elderly patients, consisting of a transverse fracture of the distal radial metaphysis proximal to the joint with dorsal displacement of the distal fragment and volar dislocation. It results from a fall on an outstretched hand. The ulnar styloid is commonly fractured as well. Another name is the Pouteau fracture.
Scaphoid deviated radiograph of the wrist. This view shows fractures of metacarpals three and four and an impacted fracture of the distal radius.
Lateral radiograph of the wrist. This shows the typical appearance of Colles fracture with dorsal tilt of the distal radial fracture fragment.
PA radiograph of the wrist. This demonstrates an impacted fracture of the radius.
