Radial head fracture: Difference between revisions

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==Clinical Features==
==Clinical Features==
*Pain in the lateral elbow, esp w/ pronation/supination of forearm
*Pain in the lateral elbow, especially with pronation/supination of forearm
*Swelling laterally and tenderness of radial head
*Swelling laterally and tenderness of radial head



Revision as of 15:42, 14 September 2015

Background

  • Most common fractures of the elbow
  • Caused by FOOSH leading to radial head being driven into the capitellum
  • Associated injuries are common:
    • Capitellum, olecranon, and coronoid fx, MCL injury, dislocation

Clinical Features

  • Pain in the lateral elbow, especially with pronation/supination of forearm
  • Swelling laterally and tenderness of radial head

Differential Diagnosis

Elbow Diagnoses

Radiograph-Positive

Radiograph-Negative

Pediatric

Diagnosis

  • Imaging
    • Fractures are often subtle
      • Look for abnormal fat pad
      • Look for radiocapitellar line disruption

Management

  • Sling immobilization in flexion, ice, elevation
  • Nondisplaced fracture with no mobility restrictions: ortho f/u within 1wk
  • Displaced fracture or mobility restrictions: ortho f/u within 24hr

See Also