Elbow fracture-dislocation combined with Galeazzi fracture in adult: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Galeazzi fracture associated with ipsilateral posterior elbow dislocation and radial head fracture is a rare pattern of injury. Few reports exist that describes this injury pattern and its treatment. We describe a case report of simultaneous occurrence of Galeazzi fracture and ipsilateral dislocation of elbow. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 58 year-old female presented with Galeazzi fracture and posterior elbow dislocation associated with radial head fracture of left upper extremity. This was managed with closed reduction of the elbow, open reduction and internal fixation of the radial shaft fracture and K-wire stabilisation of the unstable distal radioulnar joint. Prophylactic fasciotomy was performed. At 10 months follow-up, the outcome was favourable with the American shoulder and elbow surgeon score of 92 and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score of 18. DISCUSSION: The presumed mechanism of the injury was a forceful axial loading of a hyperpronated forearm and extended elbow. Our literature review shows that this pattern of injury occurs as a result of high energy trauma in young individuals, and successful outcome can be achieved by addressing each component of this complex injury individually. CONCLUSION: Simultaneous occurrence of elbow dislocation and Galeazzi fracture seems to be the result of extreme axial force and unique position of upper extremity at the time of impact. Individualised approach to each component of this injury can result in favourable outcome. Crown