Evaluation of reliability of the Mason classification for radial head fractures

In the study reported here, we sought to determine the interobserver reliability and the intraobserver reproductibility of the Mason classification. We also evaluated the effect of having an external rotation oblique view on agreement in radiographic readings. Four readers reviewed 50 radial head fracture radiographs approximately 2 months apart. Half the radiographs had an anteroposterior view and a lateral view; the other half had an additional external rotation oblique view. There was a trend toward improved interobserver agreement in the 3-view radiographs. Three of the 4 readers demonstrated substantial intraobserver reproducibility, which was noted to be higher when 3 views were available.