The stabilizing effect of soft-tissue constraints in artificial Galeazzi fractures

Shortening of the radius is observed in Galeazzi (Piedmont) fractures and results from muscle pull after distal radioulnar joint disruption. A cadaver study was designed to examine the normal laxity at the distal radioulnar joint and contributions of the fibrocartilaginous complex (triangular ligament) and the interosseous membrane in prevention of proximal displacement of the distal radius fragment. It was found that up to 5 mm of radial shortening occurred after osteotomy alone. Shortening of over 10 mm did not occur unless both the interosseous ligament and the triangular ligament were sectioned. Some Galeazzi-type fractures may occur in the absence of distal radioulnar joint disruption, and others may result in disruption of the interosseous membrane of the forearm in addition to disruption of the triangular ligament at the wrist. Diaphyseal fractures of the distal radius may occur in several stages of severity. Attempts to produce a Galeazzi lesion by axial loading and pronation of the forearm above the dorsiflexed wrist caused a variety of injuries but did not result in an isolated fracture of the distal radius or disruption of the distal radioulnar joint.