Fracture rotation

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Fracture rotation describes one type of fracture displacement where there has been a rotation of the distal fracture fragment in relation to the proximal portion. It is often difficult to see on an x-ray, but relatively simple to determine on clinical examination.

Rotation of a fracture may be very important to function, e.g. rotation in a metacarpal fracture may result in significant disability if the fracture isn't reduced appropriately. It is most easily seen when looking at the orientation of the joints above and below a fracture.

Fractures