OCC Fracture Types & Casting Indications Flashcards

A Colles fracture is a distal radius fracture with which characteristic displacement?

Answer: Dorsal displacement and angulation of the distal fragment (dinner fork deformity)

The classic Colles fracture produces dorsal tilt of the distal fragment, creating the dinner fork silhouette on lateral X-ray.

Which cast is the standard immobilization for an uncomplicated Colles fracture after reduction?

Answer: Short arm cast in slight flexion and ulnar deviation

A short arm cast with the wrist in slight flexion and ulnar deviation counteracts the deforming forces of a Colles fracture.

A scaphoid fracture is typically immobilized in which cast?

Answer: Thumb spica cast

Thumb spica immobilization includes the thumb and wrist to protect the scaphoid's tenuous blood supply and prevent non-union.

Which fracture pattern describes a bone that bends but does not completely break, seen primarily in children?

Answer: Greenstick fracture

Greenstick fractures occur in pediatric patients whose immature, flexible bone bends and fractures on one cortex while the other remains intact.

A boxer's fracture involves which bone?

Answer: Neck of the fifth metacarpal

A boxer's fracture is a fracture of the neck of the fifth metacarpal, typically from striking with a closed fist.

An ankle fracture involving only the lateral malleolus without ligamentous instability is MOST commonly treated with:

Answer: Short leg cast or walking boot for 4-6 weeks

Stable isolated lateral malleolus fractures are managed conservatively with a short leg cast or functional brace allowing controlled weight-bearing.