Surgical Anatomy of the Distal Radius

Key Points

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  The precise knowledge of the evolution of the anatomy of the radius is essential to understand the main points of the treatment decision and the surgical principles.

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  General anatomy of the distal radius subdivides it in a diaphysis, metaphysis, and epiphysis. Each surface of different shape is covered by a different structure, mostly tendoninous. The angulations of the ulnar and the radial columns are different. The watershed line is the most distal limit that a standard osteosynthesis plate must not exceed.

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  The “radiographic check list” of the distal radius include:

  • radial inclination (frontal plain)

  • volar tilt

  • teardrop angle

  • AP distance

  • articular depth

  • dorsal rim line

  • coronal shift