Elbow fractures: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Strains, sprains, or dislocations may happen at the same time as a fracture. X-rays are done to confirm if a fracture is existing and if the bones are out of position. Occasionally a CT scan (Computed Tomography) might be required to get further information.

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Types of Elbow Fractures

The different kinds of elbow fractures are: 

Radial head and neck fractures

Pain is often worse with forearm rotation (turning the palm down and up). The treatment of this fracture depends on the size and number of the bone fragments. Complex fractures usually need surgery or to replace or remove the radial head if there are any bony parts. 

Olecranon fractures

These fractures are often displaced and need surgery done using orthopedic instruments. The bone fragments are realigned and held together with Orthopedic Implants like wires or pins or screws and bone plates.

Also Read About: Diagnosis of Dislocation and Subluxation

Fractures of the distal humerus

These fractures happen normally in children and elderly. Nerve and/or artery injuries can be related to these kinds of fractures and must be carefully evaluated by the doctor. These fractures need surgical repair with a screw and/or plate unless they are stable. 

Signs and Symptoms

Swelling, pain, stiffness and bruising in and around the elbow may be symptoms of a possible fracture. A pop or snap during injury may be heard or felt. Visible deformity might mean that the bones are out of its position or that the elbow joint is dislocated. There may be weakness or numbness in the wrist, hand or arm.

Treatment

Fractures that are out of its position or unstable are more likely to need surgery. a surgical process would replace and stabilize the bone fragments or remove fragments of bone. Whenever a fracture is open (skin is broken over the fracture), urgent surgery is required to clean out the wound and bone to reduce the infection risk.

Non-surgical treatment like using a cast, sling or splint is typically utilized when the bones are at low risk of moving out of its position or when the position of the bones is fine as is. Age is also an essential factor when treating elbow fractures. Casts are utilized more often in children, as their risk of developing elbow stiffness is less; however, elbow stiffness is much more likely in an adult. Rehabilitation directed by your doctor is usually utilized to maximize motion as well as decrease the chance of getting stiffness in the elbow. This might include scar massage, exercises, heat, ice, ultrasound, and splints that stretch the joint. 

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Jon Joined: December 12th, 2018