What it is
A fracture of the posterior ulna or lower humerus, usually after a fall or direct impact. It may compromise the extensor mechanism, nerves or circulation.
Typical clinical symptoms
- Severe pain, swelling and bruising after trauma
- Deformity or marked focal bony tenderness
- Inability to straighten the elbow or use the arm
- Numbness, weakness, a cold hand or weak pulse requires emergency care
Video
No video has been added for this condition yet.
Scientific literature
External publications selected for this topic. Their scope may cover a specific condition, population or intervention within this topic; they do not constitute an individual treatment plan.
The treatment of olecranon fractures in adults.
Literature review · 2017
Elbow & Forearm
When is medical coordination needed?
Deformity after trauma, immediate inability to move the arm, severe pain with a tense forearm, a cold or pulseless hand, progressive numbness or weakness, and redness with fever require prompt medical assessment.
Descriptions are for orientation. Diagnosis follows history, clinical examination and, only when indicated, imaging or laboratory tests.
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