Radial Head Fractures

Understanding Radial Head Fractures

The radial head is the top of the radius, the forearm bone on the thumb side. Radial head fractures account for about 20% of acute elbow injuries and are more common in women and in people between 30 and 40. It rotates against the humerus when you turn your palm up and down and helps stabilize the elbow. Radial head fractures are among the most common elbow fractures in adults, usually from a fall on an outstretched hand.

Fractures are grouped by severity: small, non-displaced cracks; fractures with a single displaced piece; and fractures broken into several pieces, often with ligament injury or dislocation.

Non-displaced fractures are treated with a brief period of rest followed by early motion to prevent stiffness. Displaced fractures that block rotation are fixed with small screws or plates. Severely broken radial heads, especially with an unstable elbow, are often treated with radial head replacement.

Causes & Risk Factors

• A fall on an outstretched hand
• Sports injuries
• Elbow dislocations

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of Radial Head Fracture include:

• Pain on the outer side of the elbow
• Swelling
• Difficulty bending, straightening or turning the forearm

Treatment Options

Treatment for Radial Head Fracture depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

• A sling or splint for comfort with early motion
• Joint aspiration to relieve pain from swelling
• Physical therapy
• Open reduction and internal fixation
• Radial head replacement (radial head arthroplasty) for severely broken fractures