Colles Fracture Classification
The provided evidence does not contain specific classification systems for Colles fractures, as the available guidelines focus on proximal femoral fractures, rib fractures, thoracolumbar spine trauma, facial trauma, and stress fractures rather than distal radius fractures.
What We Know About Colles Fractures from Available Evidence
Based on the limited relevant evidence, Colles fractures are distal radius fractures that can be characterized by their displacement patterns, though no formal classification system is detailed in the provided sources.
Key Displacement Measurements
The most clinically relevant measurements for assessing Colles fractures include:
- Dorsal displacement - This is one of two independent measurements that matters for comparing fracture severity 1
- Radial displacement - The only other measurement independent of dorsal displacement 1
- Dorsal angulation - Final dorsal angulation correlates with loss of wrist flexion 2
- Radial shortening - Though measured, this does not consistently correlate with functional outcomes 2
Fracture Characteristics That May Be Assessed
- Articular involvement - Whether the radiocarpal or distal radioulnar joint surfaces are involved 2, 3
- Comminution - Presence or absence of multiple fracture fragments 4
- Associated ulnar styloid fractures - Though these do not significantly affect functional outcomes 2
- Severity of initial displacement - This correlates with functional results at 3 months 3
Clinical Relevance
The severity of initial displacement is the primary factor that predicts functional outcome, more so than the specific fracture pattern or classification type 3. Interestingly, involvement of the radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints does not adversely affect rehabilitation 3, and radial shortening shows poor correlation with grip strength or range of motion 2.
Important Caveat
The provided evidence does not include formal classification systems such as the Frykman, Fernandez, or AO classifications that are commonly used for Colles fractures in clinical practice. The evidence focuses primarily on displacement measurements and functional outcomes rather than categorical classification schemes.