Orthonotes
Orthonotes
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v4.1 Fusion X
v4.1 Fusion X
trauma topic hub

Radial Head & Neck Fractures (Adults & Paediatrics)

Radial head and neck fractures are common elbow injuries caused most often by a fall on an outstretched hand that transmits axial force through the forearm to the elbow. In adults, radial head fractures are typically intra-articular and are classified using the Mason classification, with treatment ranging from early mobilization for minimally displaced fractures to open reduction, fixation, or radial head replacement for displaced or comminuted injuries. In children, fractures usually occur at the radial neck because the radial head is largely cartilaginous, and they are commonly classified by the Judet system based on angulation. Management in paediatric cases is mainly conservative for angulation less than 30°, while larger deformities may require closed reduction or minimally invasive fixation. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are important to prevent complications such as elbow stiffness, loss of forearm rotation, avascular necrosis, and radioulnar synostosis.

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Radial head and neck fractures are common elbow injuries caused most often by a fall on an outstretched hand that transmits axial force through the forearm to the elbow. In adults, radial head fractures are typically intra-articular and are classified using the Mason classification, with treatment ranging from early mobilization for minimally displaced fractures to open reduction, fixation, or radial head replacement for displaced or comminuted injuries. In children, fractures usually occur at the radial neck because the radial head is largely cartilaginous, and they are commonly classified by the Judet system based on angulation. Management in paediatric cases is mainly conservative for angulation less than 30°, while larger deformities may require closed reduction or minimally invasive fixation. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are important to prevent complications such as elbow stiffness, loss of forearm rotation, avascular necrosis, and radioulnar synostosis.

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