We need you! Join our contributor community and become a WikEM editor through our open and transparent promotion process.
Essex-Lopresti fracture
From WikEM
Contents
Background
- Triad of Radial head fracture , disruption of interosseous membrane, and Distal radioulnar joint disruption
Clinical Features
- Unstable and painful forearm
- Axial force from wrist to elbow after fall on outstretched hand
- Grip weakness and difficulty pronating wrist
Differential Diagnosis
Elbow Diagnoses
Radiograph-Positive
- Radial head fracture
- Essex-Lopresti fracture
- Capitellum fracture
- Olecranon fracture
- Elbow dislocation
Radiograph-Negative
- Lateral epicondylitis
- Medial epicondylitis
- Olecranon bursitis (nonseptic)
- Septic bursitis
- Biceps tendon rupture/dislocation
Pediatric
- Nursemaid's elbow
- Supracondylar fracture
- Lateral epicondyle fracture
- Medial epicondyle fracture
- Olecranon fracture
- Radial head fracture
- Salter-Harris fractures
Evaluation
- PA and lateral radiographs of the forearm may only show a Radial head fracture
Management
- Orthopedic referral
Disposition
See Also
External Links
References
- Williams D. Wrist and forearm. In: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2014.
