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Authors

Fergal Monsell, Dalia Sepulveda

General Editor

Chris Colton

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23r-E/4.1   Simple epi-/metaphyseal fracture, Salter-Harris IV, radius

This is a fracture that is caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand and is more common in adolescents.

The fracture is associated with local tenderness over the distal radius. Local swelling is usual.
Check for signs of median nerve deficit.

Wrist motion is usually markedly impaired.

X-ray may not be helpful in defining precisely the intraarticular nature of the injury. A CT scan is most helpful to define the fracture anatomy accurately.

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