RADIAL HEAD FRACTURE

Question 1

Mechanism

Answer 1

FOOSH
Elbow in extension and forearm in pronation

Question 2

Symptoms

Answer 2

Pain along the lateral aspect of the elbow
Limited elbow / forearm motion especially pronation / supination

Question 3

Physical Exam

Answer 3

Pain over radial head exacerbated by pronation / supination
Tenderness over the lateral elbow

Question 4

X-RAY

Answer 4

AP and lateral elbow
AP and lateral forearm / wrist
Effusion with no facture

Question 5

Management: Undisplaced

Answer 5

posterior slab or sling
follow up with ortho within 1 week
Immobilize for 3-7 days
Early ROM

Question 6

Management: Displaced

Answer 6

Long Arm Posterior Splint forearm neutral
Referal to ortho from ED

Question 7

Management: Undisplaced radial neck fracture

Answer 7

Sling, follow up within a week

Question 8

Associated Injuries

Answer 8

LCL
MCL
Essex-Lopresti Injury
Coronoid Fracture
Olecranon Fracture
Monteggia Fracture
Terrible Triad: posteriolateral elbow dislocation, radial head fracture, coronoid fracture
Scaphoid fracture