Isolated Radial Shaft Fracture with Unreducable Posterior Dislocation of the Radial Head in Adult: A Case Report

J Orthop Case Rep. 2020 Aug-Sep;10(5):61-64. doi: 10.13107/jocr.2020.v10.i05.1840.

Abstract

Introduction: Isolated fracture of the radial diaphysis with dislocation of the radial head is a rare injury, which requires careful evaluation. Combined injuries associated with forearm shaft fractures and elbow dislocations are well recognized.

Case report: A 35-year-old male presented to our emergency department with a history of fall in ditch under influence of alcohol with swelling of her right elbow and deformity of right upper limb. Roentgenograms showed oblique fracture of the radial shaft and dislocation of radial head posteriorly. He underwent open reduction and internal fixation of fracture with limited contact dynamic compression plate and reduction of radial head and fixing with radiocapitellar wire. After 4 months, the fracture healed fully and he had complete full range of elbow movements.

Conclusion: Ipsilateral radial head dislocation and radial shaft fracture are extremely rare injury in a child. A good outcome can be achieved by applying principles of the management of proximal forearm fracture-dislocation. Ipsilateral radial head dislocation and radial shaft fracture is extremely rare injury in a child. A good outcome can be achieved by applying principles of management of proximal forearm fracture-dislocation.

Keywords: Radius; dislocation; fracture; radial head.

Publication types

  • Case Reports