Radial head fracture

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Background

  • Most common fractures of the elbow, approximately 20% of elbow fractures
  • Caused by FOOSH in pronation leading to radial head being driven into the capitellum

Associated injuries (are common)

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

Evaluation

  • Elbow X-ray
    • Fractures are often subtle
      • Look for abnormal fat pad
      • Look for radiocapitellar line disruption
      • Greenspan View X-Ray
        • If possible, lateral elbow is shot at 45 degrees to pick up subtle fractures

Management

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

Disposition

  • Normally outpatient

See Also

References