Other Common Upper Limb Injuries

Question 1

Are radial head fractures intra- or extra-articular?

Answer 1

Intra-articular fractures.

Question 2

Are radial neck fractures intra- or extra-articular?

Answer 2

Extra-articular fractures.

Question 3

How are radial head/neck fractures managed?

Answer 3

• Undisplaced/minimally displaced usually treated conservatively; 3 weeks in a sling with early mobilisation.
• Displaced fractures often require ORIF.
• Type 3 radial head/neck fractures (comminuted head/head removed from neck) require radial head replacement/hemiarthroplasty

Question 4

Describe olecranon fractures.

Answer 4

• Intra-articular

- Usually displaced (strong triceps tendons pull fracture)

Question 5

How are olecranon fractures managed?

Answer 5

Displaced: open reduction internal fixation e.g. tension wire banding or plate and screws.