Pronation Type Galeazzi-equivalent Fracture: A Rare Case Report (CARE-compliant)

Rationale: Galeazzi fractures are uncommon, and are less common in children than in adults. Galeazzi-equivalent fractures, a variant of the classic Galeazzi fractures, mostly occur in children or adolescents. Galeazzi equivalent fractures may commonly accompany distal radial fractures or injury of the epiphyseal plate of the distal ulna.

Patient Concerns: A 13-year-old man visited our emergency department after stumbling over a rock. Manual reduction and splinting was already done in a nearby medical center. Plain radiographs revealed fractures in the distal radius and fracture of the ulnar epiphyseal plate.

Diagnosis: Plain radiographs showed Galeazzi-equivalent fracture. The result of primary closed reduction was not enough and there was still displacement of fracture.

Interventions: Anatomical reduction of distal radius was fixed with a plate and screws, and K-wires were inserted percutaneously for reduction and fixation of ulnar fracture.

Outcomes: Complete bone union was achieved and normal range of motion is shown 2 years postoperatively. The patient is able to perform daily activities and sport activities without any signs of ulnar growth arrest.

Lessons: Open reduction is required in patients with malalignment, failure to reduce the DRUJ or maintain its reduction, or older ages which are hard to expect sufficient bone remodeling.