Radial Head Fracture
What is it: Radial head fractures are fractures of the proximal radius that may occur with a fall on an outstretched arm or directly on the elbow.
How does it present: Patients usually present after an injury with lateral elbow pain. They may also complain of some locking of the elbow.
Common exam findings: On exam you may appreciate tenderness with palpation of the radial head. Supination and pronation may also increase pain.
Tests and treatment: X-rays are needed to make the diagnosis, but non-displaced fractures may be difficult to see on routine elbow films. A positive posterior fat pad sign would suggest intra-articular fracture. Oblique views on x-ray may be helpful, or computer tomography (CT scan) may be helpful as further studies to evaluated for radial head fractures. Treatment depends on the type of fracture. Non-diplaced fractures are treated with splinting for pain with early range of motion exercises. Displaced fractures may require surgical intervention and should be referred to orthopedics.