Abstract
No consensus currently exists on the facture location of dorsally displaced distal radius fractures (DRFs). We present a systematic evaluation of the distal fracture line (DFL) location of DRFs and possible influencing factors. Determining the average location of DRFs provides a basis for developing more sensitive tests to determine bone strength using a variety of imaging techniques and for developing improved biomechanical models to test fracture characteristics and surgical implants. Initial radiographs of 157 DRFs dorsally displaced DRFs in patients aged 40–74 years were identified, patient and trauma specific data were collected, and standard radiographic measurements and (AO) fracture classification were performed. The dorsal and palmar DFL locations relative to the corresponding apex of the lunate facet were measured. The DFL was located dorsally 7.9 ± 2.7 mm and palmarly 11.7 ± 3.9 mm proximal to the corresponding lunate fossa apex. The dorsal DFL was significantly distal to the palmar one (p < 0.001), but the two did not correlate (r^2^ = 0.018, p = 0.095). DFL location was independent of age, energy of the fall, and fracture complexity. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:489–494, 2011