6533b7d6fe1ef96bd1266473

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Radial Head Fractures

Pol Maria RommensLars Peter MüllerKlaus J. Burkhart

subject

musculoskeletal diseasesOrthodonticsMedial collateral ligamentbiologybusiness.industryElbowRadial headmusculoskeletal systembiology.organism_classificationbody regionsValgusmedicine.anatomical_structureForearmmedicineAxial loadRadial head fracturebusiness

description

Radial head fractures are the most common elbow fractures, accounting for 20–30 %. Typically, the fractures evolve from a fall on the outstretched hand with the elbow extended and the forearm in pronation. The role of the radial head as an important stabilizer of the elbow joint has been recognized in the last decade. Sixty percent of the axial load transmitted through the elbow is conducted through the radial head. Furthermore, the radial head is an important stabilizer against valgus stresses. While the medial collateral ligament (MCL) is the primary stabilizer against valgus stress, the role of the radial head emerges when the MCL is torn. These findings have led to a change in treatment recommendations.

yearjournalcountryeditionlanguage
2014-01-01
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-38388-5_11