Melone Classification of Distal Radial Fractures

The Melone classification describes intra-articular distal radius fractures by four main fragments, the radial shaft, the radial styloid and the dorsal and volar medial (lunate facet) fragments. It guides fixation of the medial fragments that control the radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints.

Melone Classification of Distal Radial Fractures, radiograph of a displaced distal radius fracture
Radiograph of a displaced distal radius fracture. Image by Curtishand, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain.
Type Description
Type IUndisplaced minimal comminution
Type IILunate Fossa die punch
. Anterior displacement
. Posterior displacement
Type IIIRadial shaft component & above
Type IVTransverse split with rotation of artic fragments
Malone (1984) Classification of Distal Radial Fractures


Many intra-articular fractures not only had instability but also have recognisable patterns of displacement

  • Similar to Neer’s for proximal humerus
  • Usually 3-4 component
    • Shaft
    • Radial styloid
    • Dorsal medial
    • Palmar medial

Reviewed by Professor Phong Tran, Head of Orthopaedic Surgery, Western Health. Last updated 10 October 2026.