Elbow fractures

Question 1

What are olecranon fractures

Answer 1

Common fractures from falls- high energy in young, low in old

Avulsion fracture- because ligaments of triceps attached to olecranon-pull appart
this leads to fragments being separated and cant use simple wires

present as traumatic hx with pain, palpable, difficulties extending elbow

need a tension band insertion if displaced
can be casted if non displaced

Question 2

What are coronoid fractures

Answer 2

Traumatic elbow injury, nearly pathomnemonic with elbow instability
usually from shearing forces

sx- elbow DEFORM, swelling, pain
elbow resting position abnomral
forarm/wrist assox

exam- crepitus noted on movements
varus/valgus instability test

minimally displaced- cast
or K-wire fixation and steady
open reduction internal fixation

Question 3

What are radial head fractures

Answer 3

Common intra-articular fract- very very common
from FOOSH
v common with assoxiated soft tissue injrt- collateral ligamnents (lateral 80%)
Esex Lopestri = radial head + distal radioulnar joint + interossus membrane

think monteggia and Gallietzi fractures too

Pain, limited elbow and forarm motion
Flexion- uunder 150
Pronation/supination under 85/75

stability testing- drawer test and valgus stress test

fix with open reduction internal fixation