Magnetic resonance imaging findings in 46 elbows with a radial head fracture

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Radial head fractures are common, and may be associated with other injuries of clinical importance. We present the results of a standard additional MRI scan for patients with a radial head fracture. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 44 patients (mean age 47 years) with 46 radial head fractures underwent MRI. 17 elbows had a Mason type-I fracture, 23 a Mason type-II fracture, and 6 elbows had a Mason type-III fracture. RESULTS: Associated injuries were found in 35 elbows: 28 elbows had a lateral collateral ligament lesion, 18 had capitellar injury, 1 had a coronoid fracture, and 1 elbow had medial collateral ligament injury. INTERPRETATION: The incidence of associated injuries with radial head fractures found with MRI was high. The clinical relevance should be investigated.