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A patient presents with a Colles' fracture. What is the characteristic deformity associated with this type of fracture?

  • A. Dorsal displacement of the distal fragment
  • B. Ventral displacement of the distal fragment
  • C. Lateral displacement of the distal fragment
  • D. Medial displacement of the distal fragment
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Colles' fracture is a type of distal radius fracture characterized by a break of the radius bone in the forearm close to the wrist. In a Colles' fracture, the distal fragment of the fractured radius bone gets displaced dorsally, meaning it shifts upwards towards the back of the hand, creating a characteristic "dinner fork" deformity when viewed from the side. This dorsal displacement results in a visible bump on the back of the wrist and a noticeable deformity when compared to the uninjured side.