Forearm fracture

Background

• Solitary fractures of the forearm are uncommon
  • Fractures usually occur at two or more sites or also involve a ligamentous injury

Monteggia Fracture-Dislocation

Background

• Ulna fx (proximal third) + radial head dislocation
• Easy to overlook the radial head dislocation (will result in worse outcome)

Clinical Features

• Pain/swelling at elbow
• Radial head may be palpable in an anterolatera or posterolateral location

Management

• Consult ortho in the ED; likely requires ORIF

Galeazzi Fracture-Dislocation

Background

• Radius fx (distal third) + distal radioulnar dislocation
• Caused by FOOSH or direct blow

Clinical Features

• Localized tenderness/swelling over distal radius/wrist

Diagnosis

• PA: May only show slightly increased distal radioulnar joint space
• Lateral: Ulna is displaced dorsally

Management

• Consult ortho in the ED; likely requires ORIF

See Also

Fracture (Main)

Source

• Tintinalli