Radial head fractures

Question 1

what causes radial head fractures?

Answer 1

indirect trauma with axial loading of the forearm causing the radial head to be pushed against the capitulum of the humerus.

Question 2

what are the clinical features of radial head fractures?

Answer 2

• history of fall on outstretched hand, followed by elbow pain
• tenderness on palpation
• crepitations on supination and pronation, movements may also be limited

Question 3

what investigations can be done?

Answer 3

• routine bloods, including clotting screen and group and save
• plain AP and lateral radiographs of elbo
• look for sails sign aka elivation of anterior fat pad or the posterior fat pad presence, which is pathological

Question 4

how are radial head fractures managed?

Answer 4

• analgesia
• check for NV compromise

treat via mason classification

• type 1 = non operative
• type 2 = depends if theres a mechanical block or not if need surgery
• type 3 = surgery