Fracture radial head

Ray Ballinger, MD, PhD

Straub Clinic and Hospital

rballinger at straub.net

Abstract

39 y/o man fell on elbow

Keywords

msk plain fracture radius

History and Images

39 y/o man fell on elbow. Now has pain and limitation of flexion and extension of the elbow.

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Findings

A mildly displaced fracture of the radial head is seen involving about 40% of the articular surface. The 3D reconstructed CT scan images show the fracture in more detail, allowing improved presurgical planning.

Diagnosis

Fracture Radial Head

Confirmation:

Physicial examination

Discussion

Fractures of the radial head are a common fracture that may result from direct, or more frequently, indirect trauma. Displaced fractures may require internal fixation. A combination of fracture and dislocation of the radial head is uncommon but has a worst prognosis.