Delayed dislocation of radial head following upper radial epiphysial injury

Injury to the upper radial epiphysis is mainly a radiological diagnosis. Delayed dislocation of the radial head following such injuries, where there is no evidence of primary subluxation or dislocation, has not been recorded in the literature. We have identified three such cases that needed open reduction. As long term results of delayed treatment of dislocation of any joint is not good, we advocate the awareness of this complication and also a longer period of routine follow-up (up to a year) of all upper radial epiphysial injuries, to avoid a catastrophe in an entirely preventable situation.