Menu

Fracture of the head of the radius

A full range of orthopedic services, from diagnosis to full recovery

Radial head fractures are a fracture of the uppermost disc-shaped part of the radius, which connects to the ulna at its proximal end through a smaller sigmoid notch and to the humerus.perelom-golovki-luchevoy-kosti.jpg
This joint is responsible for pronation and supination of the forearm (rotational movements).

The vast majority of fractures of the head of the radius occur as a result of falling on an outstretched arm.

The force is transmitted along the radius to the elbow, and the head of the radius collides with the head of the condyle of the shoulder. Sometimes hallux valgus applied to the elbow joint can lead to a fracture of the head and is often accompanied by a fracture of the ulnar process. Also, with these complex injuries, the medial collateral ligament of the elbow is often torn. A rupture of the collateral ligament on one side and a fracture of the radial head on the other make the elbow joint completely unstable.

A fracture of the head of the radius occurs in 20% of cases of elbow injury.

Mason's classification of Radius head fractures:
perelom-golovki-luchevoy-kosti-2-.jpg

After the injury, before visiting the doctor, you should immobilize the elbow joint as much as possible, apply dry cold topically through the tissue for up to 15-20 minutes. In case of severe pain, it is possible to take painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.

If there is damage to the integrity of the skin - do not use ointments, it is better to treat them with a solution of water antiseptics and apply a sterile gauze bandage.

The basic examination is radiography in at least 2 projections. For detailed detailing of bone structures, it is possible to perform computed tomography. Magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound diagnostics are used to visualize the soft tissue elements of the elbow joint.

Conservative treatment

Fractures with minimal displacements are treated conservatively. This is done by immobilization in a cast or splint, followed by physical therapy and physical therapy.

Surgical treatment

The following are indications for surgery for fractures of the head of the radius:
  • the fracture covers more than 33% of the articular surface
  • tilt angle > 30 °
  • offset > 3 mm
  • free intra-articular fragments
  • displaced fractures block movement
  • concomitant injuries
  • fractures of the ulnar process
  • rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament
  • damage to the distal wrist joint
  • interosseous membrane that makes the radius unstable
Mounting options include mini plates and screws. If recovery is not possible, removal of comminuted fragments or endoprosthetics of the radius head may be considered. In the presence of preoperative valgus instability, the medial collateral ligament is restored.

After the operation, rehabilitation begins with exercises for the range of motion. Splinter Fusion usually occurs within 6-8 weeks.

Application

Form Header

Advantages of treatment in Orthopedics by Ruslan Sergienko

  • 10 years on medical services in Ukraine
  • > 25 years of experience with leading specialists
  • Anna Vovchenko and Ruslan Sergienko are recognized opinion leaders among the orthopedic traumatologists
  • > 150,000 consultations were held
  • > 7,500 surgeries were performed
  • All types of pain management
  • The operating unit is equipped according to international standards
  • Availability of all medicines and supplies
  • Single rooms, equipped with the characteristics of orthopedic patients
  • Three meals a day
  • Postoperative rehabilitation by certified specialists
  • Pricing Transparency

Feed back

This website uses cookies to make your use of the site more user-friendly.
Learn more about cookies and cookie policies. By clicking OK, you agree with it.