The purpose of this study is to evaluate the incidence and characteristics of concomitant carpal bone fractures and ligament injuries and to analyze risk factors for carpal injuries in patients with distal radius fractures.

A total of 362 patients with 379 distal radius fractures were reviewed retrospectively. Associated carpal bone fractures and ligament injuries were evaluated by plain radiographs and computed tomography at the time of initial trauma. Correlation between associated carpal injuries and various parameters was also analyzed.

Of 379 distal radius fractures, 39 cases (10.3%) had one or more carpal bone fracture and 40 cases (10.6%) had carpal ligament injuries. Overall, carpal injuries occurred in 59 cases (15.6%) distal radius fractures. Associated carpal ligament injuries showed correlation with young age and associated carpal bone fractures showed correlation with AO type B distal radius fractures. Carpal injuries including fracture and ligament injury showed correlation with male, high energy trauma, or associated injuries beyond wrist.

The incidence of concomitant carpal injuries in patients with distal radius fractures is relatively high. Concomitant carpal injuries were more common in young age, male, high energy trauma, AO type B distal radius fractures, or associated injuries beyond wrist.