Fractures: Arm

Question 1

In whom are radial head fractures common?

Answer 1

Young adults

Question 2

What are radial head fractures usually caused by?

Answer 2

FOOSH

Question 3

What are examination findings of radial head fractures?

Answer 3

Local tenderness over radial head
Impaired elbow movement
Sharp pain at lateral elbow at extremes of rotation (i.e. pronation/supination)

Question 4

What is a Monteggia fracture?

Answer 4

of the proximal ulna in association with a dislocation of the proximal head of the radius.

Question 5

In whom are Monteggia fractures most commonly seen?

Answer 5

Children 4-10 y/o

Question 6

most common type of elbow fracture?

Answer 6

olecranon process fracture

Question 7

causes of elbow fracture?

Answer 7

direct impact onto the elbow (e.g. falling directly onto the elbow), or indirectly (e.g. falling on an outstretched arm).

Question 8

dx of elbow fracture?

Answer 8

plain x-ray

Question 9

mx of elbow fracture?

Answer 9

first-line: nonoperative
- short-term administration of NSAIDS, rest +/- temporary splinting (4-6 weeks)

second-line: operative - open internal fixation
- if unstable/displaced or delayed fracture union

Question 10

possible approaches for elbow fracture open internal fixation?

Answer 10

large compression screw
tension band wire