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Radial Neck Fracture

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Radial head should point at capitellum in all views.

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Uncommon
8% paediatric elbow fractures
Median age 9-10 years
50% have other associated elbow injuries
- Avulsion medial epicondyle
- Fracture Proximal Ulna
- Fracture Olecranon

MECHANISM:

FOOSH with Valgus stress at elbow.

ORTHO If:

>10 years old
>30 degree angulation or 3mm translation.
Intra-articular physeal fracture (Salter Harris III and IV)
Associated injuries in the same limb
Extreme swelling/compartment syndrome
Open fracture
Neurovascular injury

MANAGEMENT

Analgesia
Fractures with <=30 degree angulation and <3mm translation do not require reduction.
- Above elbow backslab with elbow in 90 degree flexion.
Older children less angulation is acceptable. If >10 years old discuss with Ortho.

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