This type of fracture is rare. When falling with the palm landing on the ground, the impact force acts on the distal end of the radius through the scaphoid, causing a transverse fracture of the radial styloid. It can also result from direct impact, such as being struck by a car's crank handle. Additionally, forceful ulnar deviation of the wrist joint or strong traction of the radial collateral ligament can lead to an avulsion fracture of the radial styloid. The fracture fragment is small and displaced distally. Fractures of the ulnar styloid are often associated with ligament traction and frequently accompany Colles fractures, though they can also occur independently.

bubble_chart Diagnosis

Local swelling, pain, obvious tenderness, and palpable bone crepitus can be observed. Subcutaneous static blood is present, and in severe cases, there is intra-articular hemorrhage in the wrist joint, leading to restricted wrist movement.

In cases of radial styloid fracture, the fracture line is difficult to visualize on lateral X-ray images. On anteroposterior X-ray films, a transverse fracture line can be seen, originating at the intersection of the scaphoid and lunate articular surfaces and extending outward to terminate approximately 1 cm from the apex of the radial styloid. For ulnar styloid fractures, grade I displacement can be observed.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

There is a displaced radial styloid fracture. By applying traction to the ulnar-deviated wrist joint and pushing the displaced fracture fragment toward the ulnar side, satisfactory reduction can be achieved. A short-arm cast can be used for immobilization for 3–4 weeks. If the reduction is unstable or displacement recurs, fixation with Kirschner wires or screws can be employed.