Colles fracture presents with what deformity?

• A. Volar tilt deformity
• B. Dinner fork deformity (dorsal displacement of distal radius)
• C. Radial deviation
• D. Ulnar deviation

Answer: (B)

Colles fracture produces a dinner fork deformity because the distal fragment of the radius is displaced dorsally (toward the back of the hand) and angulates, giving the classic fork-like contour on the wrist. This pattern results from a fall on an outstretched hand and is a hallmark of distal radius fractures in which the fragment tilts posteriorly. By contrast, a volar (anterior) displacement of the distal fragment occurs in Smith fractures, not Colles, so the volar tilt deformity would point away from Colles. Radial or ulnar deviation are not defining features of this injury.