The elbow joint comprises of three main bones – the proximal radius, proximal ulna and the distal humerus. The radial head is the upper part of the radius, one of the two bones that form the forearm. A break, crack or displacement in this part of the elbow joint is termed as the Radial Head Fracture. Such fractures can be classified into categories based on their severity:
Type 1 – These are small fractures or cracks which may not even be visible in X-rays. The bone remains intact and no displacement occurs
Type 2 – May involve slight displacement and a larger part of the bone may have been damaged Type 3- The bone is broken into multiple pieces and is largely displaced. Such injuries are serious and are accompanied by damage to the soft tissues as well as ligaments
Causes
- Direct hit or trauma to the elbow joint
- Falling on an outstretched hand
- Sports injury
Symptoms
- Swelling on the outer part of the elbow
- Bruising
- Pain which can be acute
- Inability to move the arm, wrist or straighten the elbow
- Visible deformity may occur in case of type 3 fracture
- Tenderness in the injured part
- The forearm, hands and fingers may turn pale or numb
Diagnosis
- Detailed physical examination of the injured arm and symptoms
- The elbow doctor may ask for details regarding the time and mode of injury
- The doctor may palpate the injured elbow to check for deformity
- Examination of the arm, wrist and fingers for loss of function or nerve sensation
- X-ray images may be required to assess the severity and exact location of damage
- MRI scans may be recommended in case the doctor suspects soft tissue or ligament injury
Treatment
- Prescription of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs for immediate relief
- Application of ice packs during the first 24-48 hours of injury may reduce pain and swelling
- The injured arms should be rested by keeping it elevated
- Use of a splint or sling may be recommended for a stipulated time period
- Avoid moving the injured elbow joint and give it adequate rest
- Joint aspiration- use of a syringe to drain out excess fluids if they accumulate in or near the joint
- Surgical intervention may be required to remove bone pieces if they restrict joint movement
- Screws, wires and plates may be used internally or externally to reposition the displaced bone
- Surgery may be conducted for soft tissue or ligament damage if detected
- Surgical replacement with an artificial radial head in case of severe damage
- Specific range of motion exercises may be recommended to combat stiffness and restore flexibility of the joint
OrthoTexas provides comprehensive treatment for radial head fracture and other elbow problems.