Elbow Fractures

Question 1

What is this a presentation of?

High-energy injury (young)/low-energy (elderly), direct blow to elbow, pain.

Answer 1

Olecranon fracture

Question 2

How is an olecranon fracture investigated?

Answer 2

Check neurovascular status (ulnar nerve), x-ray.

Question 3

What is the treatment for an olecranon fracture?

Answer 3

2 weeks in cast if non-displaced, open reduced internal fixation using tension wire if displaced.

Question 4

What is this a presentation of?

FOOSH, swollen and tender over radial head, flexion and extension possible, pronation and supination causes pain.

Answer 4

Radial head fracture

Question 5

How is a radial head fracture investigated?

Answer 5

X-ray may show joint effusion

Question 6

What is the management for a radial head fracture?

Answer 6

Non-displaced - collar and cuff, aspirate haemarthrosis; displaced - open reduction internal fixation.

Question 7

What is this a presentation of?

Swollen elbow, fixed in flexion, bulge posterior to elbow.

Answer 7

Elbow dislocation

Question 8

How is an elbow dislocation investigated?

Answer 8

X-ray

Question 9

What is the management for an elbow dislocation?

Answer 9

Closed reduction, x-ray needed after, immobilise in backslab for 10 days, surgical open reduction internal fixation if epicondylar fracture present.