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Radial head fractures are a common type of elbow fracture that typically occurs after a fall on an outstretched arm. [1] They account for approximately one third of all elbow fractures and are frequently associated with other injuries of the elbow. [2] [3] Radial head fractures are diagnosed by a clinical assessment and medical imaging.
In the arm, a cylinder cast typically extends from the upper arm to just above the wrist, stabilizing injuries like isolated humeral fractures or post-surgical repairs that do not require elbow immobilization. For the leg, the cast extends from the thigh to just above the ankle, often used to manage patellar fractures, some types of tibial ...
X-ray of the affected wrist is required if a fracture is suspected. Posteroanterior, lateral, and oblique views can be used together to describe the fracture. [5] X-ray of the uninjured wrist should also be taken to determine if any normal anatomic variations exist before surgery. [5]
Extension type of injury (70% of all elbow fractures) is more common than the flexion type of injury (1% to 11% of all elbow injuries). [4] Injury often occurs on the non-dominant part of the limb. Flexion type of injury is more commonly found in older children. Open fractures can occur for up to 30% of the cases. [3]
Direct blow on back of upper forearm would be a very uncommon cause. In this context, isolated ulnar shaft fractures are most commonly seen in defence against blunt trauma (e.g. nightstick injury). Such an isolated ulnar shaft fracture is not a Monteggia fracture. [citation needed] It is called a 'nightstick fracture'.
External fixation is a surgical treatment wherein Kirschner pins and wires are inserted and affixed into bone and then exit the body to be attached to an external apparatus composed of rings and threaded rods — the Ilizarov apparatus, the Taylor Spatial Frame, and the Octopod External Fixator — which immobilises the damaged limb to facilitate healing. [1]
In such cases the affected area may be immobilised in a splint or cast and reviewed with repeat X-rays in two weeks, or alternatively an MRI or bone scan may be performed. [2] The fracture may be preventable by using wrist guards during certain activities. [1] In those in whom the fracture remains well aligned a cast is generally sufficient. [2]
Hard casts are rarely required, and soft casts or splints can be removed for brief periods of time to allow for cleaning and drying the skin underneath the splint. [11] Pain from injury varies person to person as with most injuries. Depending on the individual a course of over the counter or narcotic pain medication will suffice.