Forearm fractures

March 2018 | by EMauthor


Isolated fractures of radius or ulna


If undisplaced or not angulated , treat with above elbow back slab with fracture clinic follow up

Displaced and/or angulated, refer to orthopaedics

Beware of fracture dislocation of forearm bones

oUlnar shaft fracture with dislocation of radial head – Monteggia fracture-dislocation

oIn the normal elbow x-ray, a line through the axis of the radius will cut through the central capitulum, in Monteggia fracture this line will pass either anterior, posterior or lateral to the capitulum

Radial shaft fracture with dislocation of inferior radio-ulnar joint – Galeazzi fracture-dislocation

oThis is identified by looking at the space between the lower ends of the radius and ulna which will be widened

Both are unstable fractures

Always examine the wrist and elbow clinically and radiologically

Always refer these fractures to orthopaedics


Fractures of both radius & ulna in children


If undisplaced and not angulated, you can treat with above elbow back slab in the neutral position (mid pronation), with sling, analgesia and fracture clinic review

If there is angulation, they often need manipulation, refer to orthopaedics    


Fractures of both radius & ulna in adults


Often requires open reduction and internal fixation, refer to orthopaedics


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