Fractures of the radial head and neck in children

Abstract

In thirty-three children with fractures of the radial head or neck, and with a minimum follow-up of two years, fractures of the radial neck were most common. The proximal radial epiphysis was usually closed by the age of fifteen years. The older children in the series had the worst prognosis, as did children with other associated upper-extremity injuries, usually on the medial aspect of the elbow. The results were best if treatment was initiated early, and closed reduction usually gave the most satisfactory results. Roentgenograms of the involved elbow were often abnormal even with a good clinical result, but the long-term result in such situations is uncertain.