It is a fortunate thing that excellent functional results usually follow the common Colles' fracture, because disappointing anatomical results occasionally develop even in the most skilful hands. Though in general it is fair to class this injury as a minor fracture, this is not always the case, because the group includes a substantial number of comminuted fractures which would demand elaborate mechanical treatment if perfect anatomical restoration were to be the most important aspect of the problem.

From the student's point of view it is confusing that this common fracture is satisfactorily treated by a method which transgresses two of the basic principles of fracture treatment because, as will be shown later, the dorsal plaster slab is mechanically unsound as a method of fixation, and the position of flexion of the wrist is contrary to the general rule of splintage in the optimal position for function. Here, however, is an example of a method which is sanctioned by results and by convenience rather than theory, and these are very important practical matters in a busy clinic.

ANATOMY OF THE FRACTURE

The triple displacement of a Colles' fracture, i.e., dorsal shift, dorsal tilt, and radial shift of the distal fragment, constitutes the classical ‘dinner-fork’ deformity known to every student. Less obvious, but more important as regards treatment, are the ruptured soft parts which accompany this displacement.