The Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO/OTA) classification for a distal radius fracture with intra-articular extension involving both the radiocarpal and radioulnar joints would be classified as:
- A Type A3
- B Type B2
- C Type C3 ✓
- D Type B3
Correct answer: C. Type C3
Explanation
In AO classification of distal radius fractures: Type A is extra-articular, Type B is partial articular (one joint surface involved), and Type C is complete articular (both radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints involved). The .3 subtype denotes comminuted articular fracture. Type C3 is thus the most severe — comminuted complete articular fracture with both joint surfaces disrupted. This distinction drives surgical decision-making towards volar locking plate fixation.
Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.
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