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How to Never Miss an Elbow Fracture Again: A Radiographic Roadmap
Manage episode 478647239 series 3621712
We explore the essential techniques for accurately interpreting elbow X-rays, focusing on key lines, fat pad signs, and common fracture patterns that help reveal hidden injuries.
• Standard elbow series includes AP, lateral, and oblique views, with the lateral being the most critical "money shot"
• Two essential lines to draw: anterior humeral line (should pass through middle third of capitellum) and radiocapitellar line (should bisect the capitellum)
• Fat pad signs are crucial indicators – posterior fat pads are NEVER normal and always indicate pathology
• Pediatric injuries typically involve supracondylar fractures (60% of all pediatric elbow fractures)
• Adult injuries commonly involve radial head fractures, with 20-40% showing only fat pad signs initially
• Always check and document neurovascular status before and after any intervention
• Displaced or comminuted fractures require urgent orthopedic consultation
• Simple non-displaced fractures can be splinted with outpatient orthopedic follow-up
Check out the complete lecture and more educational content coming soon to the Invictus Board Review site.
Chapters
1. Introduction to Elbow X-Ray Series (00:00:00)
2. Drawing Lines: Key to Diagnosis (00:02:37)
3. Fat Pad Signs: Never-Miss Indicators (00:03:43)
4. Case Studies: Supracondylar Fractures (00:05:05)
5. Radial Head Fractures: Diagnosis & Management (00:09:47)
6. Complex Elbow Injuries and Treatment (00:13:26)
23 episodes
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