Monteggio fracture

• Fracture of the ulna with dislocation of the radial head ( tear of the lig. annulare with instability and dislocation of the radial head).

Classification

• according to radio dislocation :
  • Flexion (10%) – the head of the radius is luxated dorsally
  • Extension (90%) – defensive fracture – the head of the radius is luxated ventrally

X-ray image of a Monteggio fracture of the right forearm.

Clinical picture and diagnosis

• Relief position – semiflexion + pronation, clinically pain, edema , hematoma, limitation of mobility

• The deep branch of the radial nerve may be damaged

• On X- ray (AP + LAT) - McLaughlin's sign - the axis of the diaphysis of the radius passes through the head of the humerus .

Treatment

Always surgery

• Open reposition and ulna OSY splint (self-compression splint)

• Then revision of the head of the radius (reposition may be prevented by the interposed joint capsule) and suturing of the torn ligament. annular radii

• After surgery, plaster cast or orthosis for 14 days, then gradual rehabilitation (rotational movements after 3 weeks)

Links

Related articles

• Fractures of the forearm
  • Compound fractures of the radius and the ulna
  • Isolated fractures of the radius and ulna
  • Fractures of the proximal ulna
  • Smith's fracture
  • Galeazzi fracture
  • Colles fracture
• Radius
• Ulna

Source

• PASTOR, Jan. Langenbeck's medical web page [online]. [cit. 31.03.2010]. <https://langenbeck.webs.com/>.