What anomaly is characterized by dorsal displacement and angulation of the distal radius?

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The anomaly characterized by dorsal displacement and angulation of the distal radius is indeed Colles' fracture. This type of fracture typically occurs from a fall onto an outstretched hand, leading to a fracture of the distal radius with the distal fragment being displaced posteriorly. As a result, the wrist presents with a characteristic “dinner fork” or “bayonet” appearance.

In trauma, understanding the nature of the fracture is crucial for appropriate management. In contrast, other types of fractures mentioned would present differently; for instance, a Smith's fracture involves a fracture of the distal radius with volar angulation of the distal fragment, which is the opposite of the dorsal displacement seen in Colles' fracture. Bennett's fracture refers to an intra-articular fracture of the base of the first metacarpal, often associated with carpometacarpal joint dislocation, while a Galeazzi fracture involves a fracture of the distal radius with an associated injury to the distal ulnar joint, characterized by different displacement patterns. Each of these distinctions highlights the significance of the specific type of fracture when diagnosing and determining treatment strategies for wrist injuries.

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