Complex Fractures in Radial Head
They account for around a third of all elbow fractures and are most common in people between the ages of 20 and 60. (with a slightly higher frequency in females).
Radial Head Fractures: Classification
The Mason classification is used to classify radial head fractures based on the degree of displacement and intra-articular involvement:
Management
Prior to deciding on a treatment plan for the fracture, make sure the patient is properly resuscitated and stabilised. Ascertain that enough analgesia is provided.
The severity of the fracture on imaging is normally used to guide treatment, but make careful to look for neurovascular damage and mechanical elbow motion blockage as well (can the patient flex-extend and supinate-pronate)
After a radial head fracture, patients can expect a satisfactory prognosis; nevertheless, subsequent osteoarthritic alterations in the articular surfaces may develop later in life.
