In this review, the diagnostics of the Essex-Lopresti lesion is discussed. The lesion is a combination of fracture of the head of radius, rupture of the interosseous mebrane (IOM) and dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint. The lesion is often overlooked in the primary clinical settings, and it is correlated to severe instability, osteoarthritis and pain if untreated. The tools for diagnosing the condition are physical examination of relevant anatomical structures, radiographs of elbow and wrist and ultrasonic evaluation of IOM as well as peroperative tests of stability. The treatment is primarily focused on re-establishing stability of IOM.