Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Torus fracture
Introduction
Torus fracture is an incomplete fracture of the shaft of a long bone that is characterized by buckling or bulging of the cortex. Usually seen in children, frequently in the distal radius diaphysis or metaphysis. Result from a longitudinal force being applied down the long axis of a bone Term is derived from the architectural word torus used to describe the convex projecting molding used at the base of a column .
Example of a distal radial torus fracture.
(Images courtesy of RadsWiki)
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Plain x-ray: Torus fracture -
Plain x-ray: Torus fracture -
Plain x-ray: Torus fracture
References
References
- G J Irwin. Fractures in children. Imaging 16: 140-152.
- Patrick Lee, Tim B. Hunter, and Mihra Taljanovic. Musculoskeletal Colloquialisms: How Did We Come Up with These Names? RadioGraphics 2004 24: 1009-1027.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]