Elbow Capitellum Fractures

Introduction: This article, provided by the International Center for Height Increase in Iran, focuses on elbow capitellum fractures.

Table Of Contents

The Structure of the Humerus Bone

The humerus bone is cylindrical. Its upper part forms a spherical head, while the lower part flattens out, forming three distinct structures.

Lateral Condyle (External Lump): An external spherical structure of the bone, known as the lateral condyle.
Medial Epicondyle: An internal triangular structure, referred to as the medial epicondyle.
Trochlea: Located between the lateral condyle and medial epicondyle, this structure resembles a pulley and is known as the trochlea.

Capitellum Description: Situated in front of the lateral condyle, this hemispherical structure is covered in joint cartilage and articulates with the head of the radius bone. It is known as the capitellum.

Cause of Fracture: Most common in adults, these fractures often occur due to falls where the person uses their hand to prevent hitting the ground.

Elbow Pain: The primary symptom is pain, particularly on the outer and front side of the elbow. This pain intensifies with pressure on the outer elbow and makes elbow movement painful.

Simple radiography can reveal the fracture as a piece with a rounded edge in front of the elbow joint.

Therapeutic Approach: As an intra-articular fracture, it’s crucial to accurately reposition the fractured piece. Otherwise, there’s an increased risk of improper healing and subsequent arthritis in the joint.

Using a Splint: If the fracture is completely non-displaced, the main treatment involves immobilizing the elbow using a long arm splint.
Radiographic Monitoring: The treating physician will monitor the elbow’s condition with weekly radiography during the first three weeks of treatment to ensure no displacement of the fractured piece. After three weeks, the likelihood of displacement decreases, eliminating the need for repeated radiography.

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Surgery and Fixation: If the fracture in the capitellum region of the elbow is displaced, it must be repositioned through open surgery and then fixed to the main bone shaft using screws.
Importance of Accurate Repositioning: Precision in repositioning the fracture is vital. Any misalignment in the joint surface can lead to the development of osteoarthritis in the elbow joint in the future.