Espiral AtlasStyloid process of the radius
processus styloideus radii
Study entry
Description
Point in which the lateral surface of the distal end of the radius ends; larger and more distal than that of the ulna.
Relations
The radial collateral ligament of the wrist attaches to it.
Clinical
The relationship between the two styloid processes changes in fractures of the radius and the ulna.
Source: cap. 3, «Huesos del antebrazo»
Clinical correlation
Fractures of the radius and ulna; Colles fracture
In children they are usually greenstick fractures. A direct blow breaks both bones at the same level, generally in the middle third. Because the interosseous membrane joins the two, a fracture of one bone tends to come with dislocation of the nearest joint. The Colles fracture is the most common of the forearm: a complete transverse fracture of the distal 2 cm of the radius, frequent after 50 and in women with osteoporosis, from a fall on the outstretched, pronated hand. The distal fragment (often comminuted) goes backward, the styloid process of the ulna may be torn off and, with the radius shortened, the styloid of the radius is no longer more distal than that of the ulna.
Related clinical cases
- Fractures of the radius and ulna; Colles fracture