33A3.1/.2 Extraarticular fracture, wedge
General considerations
Metaphyseal wedge fractures are more often seen in younger patients and can result from higher energy injuries.
Surgeons should always be aware that it may not be until during surgery that an occult intraarticular extension is discovered and that they may need to deal with such a fracture by reducing the articular surface using a lag screw technique.
33A3.1 Intact wedge
These fractures are characterized by contact between the main fragments after reduction usually, restoring the normal length of the bone. The wedge is intact.
X-ray taken from Orozco R et al, (1998) Atlas of Internal Fixation. Used with kind permission.
33A3.2 Fragmentary wedge
These fractures are characterized by contact between the main fragments after reduction, usually restoring the normal length of the bone. The wedge is fragmented.
X-ray by courtesy of Spital Davos, Switzerland, Dr C Ryf and Dr A Leumann.
