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Radial Head Fracture Updated 4/2010

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BASICS

  • Description
  • Epidemiology
  • Etiology
  • Associated Conditions

DIAGNOSIS

  • Signs and Symptoms
  • Tests
  • Differential Diagnosis

TREATMENT

  • General Measures
  • Special Therapy
  • Medication (Drugs)
  • Surgery

Ongoing Care

  • Prognosis
  • Complications
  • Patient Monitoring
The following is an excerpt....
BASICS
Description
  • Radial head fractures:
    • Occur in the proximal 2–3 cm of the radius
    • Are intra-articular fractures (The radial head articulates with capitellum.)
  • Classification (1):
    • Type 1: Nondisplaced fractures
    • Type 2: Partial head fractures
    • Type 3: Complete head fractures
  • Radial head fractures often are associated with other injuries to the elbow or the forearm.
Epidemiology
Incidence
  • Fractures can occur in any age group.
  • In 1 series of 333 fractures (2):
    • 67% of fractures were Mason type 1, 14% were type 2, and 19% were type 3.
    • Ligamentous injuries requiring repair were found in 13% of patients.
Etiology
  • This fracture generally results from a fall on the outstretched hand with the forearm in pronation.
  • The position of the elbow ...

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See Also
Images >
Fig. 1. Femur fracture in a 10-year-old (A) treated with flexible intramedullary nails (B).
Patient Handouts >