Fractures & Trauma · Elbow
Elbow Fracture
(Broken Elbow)
The components of the elbow include the distal humerus, the proximal ulna, and the proximal radius. When an injury occurs, any of these areas or a combination of areas may fracture (break).
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Overview
What Is an Elbow Fracture?
The components of the elbow include the distal humerus, the proximal ulna, and the proximal radius. When an injury occurs, any of these areas or a combination of areas may fracture (break).
Because the elbow is a hinge joint that depends on all three bones working together, the fracture pattern and whether the joint surface is involved both guide how the injury is treated.
The Three Components of the Elbow
Distal Humerus
Displaced fractures of the distal humerus may involve complex patterns and require multiple plates and screws for fixation.
Proximal Radius
When the proximal radius is broken into multiple pieces, treatment may involve a radial head arthroplasty (replacement).
Proximal Ulna (Olecranon)
The olecranon may demonstrate a simple or complex fracture pattern. Treatment options include pin/wire fixation and plate/screw fixation.
What Patients May Notice
- Pain and swelling at the elbow
- Tenderness over the injured bone
- Bruising around the elbow or forearm
- Difficulty bending or straightening the arm
- Reduced range of motion at the elbow
When to Seek Evaluation
A suspected broken elbow is worth evaluating. The decision regarding nonoperative versus operative treatment is complex and should be discussed with your treating physician. Evaluation helps determine which bone is involved and how the fragments are positioned.
Request an AppointmentTreatment Options
Surgical Treatment by Fracture Location
The technique selected depends on which bone is involved, the pattern of the break, and whether the joint surface is affected. The decision regarding nonoperative versus operative treatment is complex and should be discussed with your treating physician.
Distal Humerus
Displaced fractures of the distal humerus may involve complex patterns and require multiple plates and screws for fixation.
- Multiple plates and screws
Radial Head / Proximal Radius
When the proximal radius is broken into multiple pieces, treatment may involve a radial head arthroplasty (replacement).
- Radial head arthroplasty
Olecranon / Proximal Ulna
The olecranon may demonstrate a simple or complex fracture pattern. Treatment options include pin/wire fixation and plate/screw fixation.
- Pin/wire fixation
- Plate/screw fixation
Recovery After Surgery
Post-surgical recovery commonly includes a specific splinting regimen and guided therapy. Your treating physician will outline the plan that fits your fracture and your stage of healing.
Stiffness & Excess Bone Formation
Developing stiffness or excess bone formation after elbow fractures may occur. Occasionally, secondary surgery to address excess bone formation or stiffness may be necessary.
Outcomes after surgery vary and risks and benefits should be discussed in detail with your treating physician. Non-operative treatment also carries risks and benefits which should be discussed with your treating physician.
Suspect a Broken Elbow?
An evaluation with Tanay Amin, MD, FAAOS can determine which component of the elbow is involved and help you understand whether non-operative or operative treatment is the better path for your injury.
Common Questions
Elbow Fracture FAQs
Which bones make up the elbow?+
The components of the elbow include the distal humerus, the proximal ulna, and the proximal radius. When an injury occurs, any of these areas or a combination of areas may fracture (break).
How are distal humerus fractures treated?+
Displaced fractures of the distal humerus may involve complex patterns and require multiple plates and screws for fixation.
What happens if the radial head is broken into multiple pieces?+
When the proximal radius is broken into multiple pieces, treatment may involve a radial head arthroplasty (replacement).
What are the treatment options for an olecranon fracture?+
The olecranon (proximal ulna) may demonstrate a simple or complex fracture pattern. Treatment options for olecranon fractures include pin/wire fixation and plate/screw fixation.
What does recovery involve after elbow fracture surgery?+
Post-surgical recovery commonly includes a specific splinting regimen and guided therapy. Developing stiffness or excess bone formation after elbow fractures may occur. Occasionally, secondary surgery to address excess bone formation or stiffness may be necessary.
Explore fracture and injury care across the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand, or read about cubital tunnel syndrome.
Precision Hand and Orthopedic Surgery
Injured Your Elbow? Get the Right Care.
If you suspect a broken elbow, an evaluation with Tanay Amin, MD, FAAOS can determine which component of the joint is involved and help you understand which treatment approach is right for your injury.
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Disclaimer: This information is not intended to convey, substitute or supplant any medical advice. In order to establish a treating relationship, please schedule and complete your visits with a licensed physician.
Copyright 12/9/2021 Tanay Amin, MD. Do not copy, distribute, or publish this article. Please contact Precision Hand and Orthopedic Surgery PLLC with regards to any inquiries or corrections.