Monteggia fracture
A Monteggia fracture describes the combination of an ulna fracture in the forearm and a dislocation of the radius head from the elbow joint.
Causes
The most common cause is through falling onto the arm when it is outstretched.
Symptoms
Severe pain, swelling and tenderness.
Diagnosis
Following a medical examination, a diagnosis is usually backed up by an X-ray to show the extent of the damage.
Treatment
Treatment of a Monteggia fracture is usually done through fracture repair surgery to repair the ulna. However, sometimes a reduction of the radius (where it is placed back into the elbow socket) and a cast on the forearm is enough to allow healing to take place, particularly in younger people.
