Barton fracture

Last revised by Mostafa Elfeky on 5 Mar 2021

Barton fractures are fractures of the distal radius. It is also sometimes termed the dorsal type Barton fracture to distinguish it from the volar type or reverse Barton fracture.

Barton fractures extend through the dorsal aspect to the articular surface but not to the volar aspect. Therefore, it is similar to a Colles fracture. There is usually associated dorsal subluxation/dislocation of the radiocarpal joint.

History and etymology

First named by John Rhea Barton (1794-1871), an American orthopedic surgeon working at Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, United States of America 1.

See also

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