Radial head and Neck Fractures

Question 1

Cause of radial head/neck fractures?

Answer 1

Fall onto outstretched arm

Question 2

Signs and symptoms of radial head/neck fracture?

Answer 2

Lateral elbow pain on supination/pronation

Question 3

Investigation for radial head & neck fractures?

Answer 3

Undisplaced fractures may not show up on x-ray

-FAT PAD sign on lateral x-ray

Question 4

Treatment of radial head & neck fractures?

Answer 4

• Undisplaced/minimally displaced: conservative eg sling for comfort and excercise to minimise stiffness
• Displaced intra-articular radial head fractures: surgery
• Large fragment: ORIF

Question 5

How is displaced intra-articular radial head fracture treated?

Answer 5

Surgically

• Fragment causes mechanical block of full extension
• Aspiration of haemoarthrosis & injection of local anaesthetic