Galeazzi Fracture 

Fracture of distal radial shaft with distal radial-ulnar joint disruption. Remember “MUGR” to recall where the fracture is located. Here’s a quick summary.

• Fracture of distal radial shaft with distal radial-ulnar 

joint (DRUJ) disruption, peak age 9-13 

• Radius fracture will be obvious; signs of DRUJ 

disruption on x-ray include ulnar styloid fracture, 

widened DRUJ (usually 1-2 mm), 25 mm of radial 

shortening 

• Mechanism: Fall onto outstretched hand 

• Exam: swollen forearm and wrist, limited ROM 

especially in supination/pronation and at wrist 

• Possible associated injuries: Rare 

• ED Management: Pain control 

• Splint: Posterior long arm with supination 

• Ortho consult: Yes 

• Disposition 

   • Children: closed reduction of radius and DRUJ, usually 

do not require operative intervention 

   • Adults: closed reduction of radius and DRUJ, always 

followed by ORIF of radius and stabilization of DRUJ 



MH/CCF/CWRU EM Res @MetroHealth_EM



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