Barton's fracture affects what joint in the human body?

Bartons Fracture is a fracture of the distal radius bone at the base of the thumb. This fracture is sometimes also called a fracture dislocation.

Symptoms of a Bartons fracture include sudden pain at the time of the injury. There will be pain and difficulty trying to move the wrist which may appear deformed. There will be rapid swelling and bruising may develop. The wrist will be very tender to touch over the site of the fracture.

A Barton fracture occurs from a fall onto an outstretched hand, with the palm facing downwards.

Bartons fractures can be either dorsal or volar (or palmar), with the latter being more common. The difference is the exact location of the fracture, being either dorsal (on the back of the wrist) or volar (on the palm side).

If a fractured is suspected, seek medical attention immediately. An X-ray will be required to confirm the diagnosis and the extent of the injury. In most cases, surgery is required to reduce the fracture-dislocation (move it back into place) and pin the fragments of bone together.