Fractures of the radial head are common, they are seen in 20% of all acute elbow injuries and make up one third of all elbow fractures. These fractures typically occur after a fall when an axial load is applied to the forearm, causing the radial head to hit the capitulum of the humerus (fall onto the outstretched hand). Radial head fractures are more common in females and occur most frequently between 30-40 years of age. Patients typically present with relatively localised pain and swelling around the lateral elbow.
Doctor Andrew Graydon talks about common childhood orthopaedic problems. Andrew is a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Starship children’s hospital and at Eastwood orthopaedic clinic in Auckland. His areas of interest are general paediatrics, hip foot and ankle surgery along with musculoskeletal oncology.
