MSK: Common Elbow And Wrist Problems

Question 1

What occurs when the elbow becomes dislocated?

Answer 1

The distal end of the humerus is driven through the weakest part of the joint capsule, which is the anterior side. The ulnar collateral ligament is usually torn and there can also be ulnar nerve involvement.

Question 2

When does an elbow dislocation usually occur?

Answer 2

An elbow dislocation usually occurs when a young child falls on a hand with the elbow flexed.

Question 3

What is usually damaged during a dislocation?

Answer 3

The ulnar collateral ligament is usually torn and there can also be ulnar nerve involvement

Question 4

What is olecranon bursitis?

Answer 4

The inflammation of the bursa surrounding the olecranon

Question 5

What is a medial epicondylar fracture?

Answer 5

Medial condyle fractures involve a fracture line that extends through and separates the medial metaphysis and epicondyle from the rest of the humerus; by definition, the fracture line must involve the trochlear articular surface.

Question 6

What is pulled elbow?

Answer 6

A pulled elbow is a common injury amongst children under the age of five. It is a result of the lower arm (radius bone) slipping out of its normal position at the elbow joint.

Question 7

What is colles’ fracture?

Answer 7

A fracture of the distal radius in the forearm with posterior and radial displacement of the wrist and hand. The fracture is sometimes referred to as a “dinner fork” or “bayonet” deformity due to the shape of the resultant forearm.

Question 8

What is Smith’s fracture?

Answer 8

A Smith’s fracture, also sometimes known as a reverse Colles’ fracture, is a fracture of the distal radius.It is caused by a direct blow to the dorsal forearm or falling onto flexed wrists.

(As opposed to a Colles’ fracture which occurs as a result of falling onto wrists in extension. Smith’s fractures are less common than Colles’ fractures.)

Question 9

What is scaphoid fracture?

Answer 9

A fracture of the scaphoid bone also known as the carpal navicular, is the most common type of carpal bone fracture. Scaphoid fractures usually cause pain at the base of the thumb accompanied by swelling in the same area.

Question 10

Are there any clinical consequences to pulled elbow?

Answer 10

NOPE