Elbow fractures are encountered frequently. Injury patterns for children and adults are quite different. It is necessary for physicians to recognize whether fractures require admission, immediate orthopedic evaluation, or less urgent referral.
The brachial artery is the most commonly injured artery. This is especially common in supracondylar fractures. The median nerve is the most commonly injured nerve. This injury often is due to displaced supracondylar humerus fracture.
Fracture patterns vary markedly among different age groups. Supracondylar humerus fractures are most common in children aged 4-10 year. these types of fractures are thought to occur with increased frequency in this age group because of the relative strength of surrounding ligaments in comparison to bone.
Injuries to proximal radius often manifest as radial neck fractures in children and radial head fractures in adults.
Intraarticular condyle fractures are seen in children and adults.
Causes of Fracture Of The Elbow
Most elbow fractures are the result of direct trauma or a fall onto an outstretched hand. The insertion of the triceps muscles into the fractured segment of bone often causes its displacement following fracture. Elbow joints are composed of 3 distinct articulations: radiocapitellar, ulnatrochlear, and proximal radioulnar, all contained in 1 synovial-lined capsule. This capsule typically encases, or contains hematoma, or hemarthrosis following an elbow fracture.
Signs and Symptoms of Fracture Of The Elbow
Pain and swelling occur in the elbow. There is a decrease in the range of motion. It the artery is injured, the forearm and hand may appear dusky and cool. Injury to the nerve, in particular the median nerve, leads to numbness and weakness in the hand.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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