Decreased radial bone mass in Colles' fracture

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiology
• Bone Metabolism

Background:

• Colles' fracture is a common radius fracture.
• Bone density may play a role in fracture risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate bone structure in women with Colles' fracture.
• To compare bone dimensions between fractured and healthy radii.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans were used.
• Radii from 18 women with Colles' fracture were analyzed.
• Measurements were compared to age-matched healthy controls.

Main Results:

• Women with Colles' fracture had smaller radius midshaft cross-sectional area.
• A deficit in cortical bone was observed.
• A substantial deficit in distal radius trabecular bone was found.

Conclusions:

• Reduced bone mass and altered bone structure are associated with Colles' fracture in women.
• Trabecular bone deficits in the distal radius may increase fracture susceptibility.