Non-union of isolated radial neck fracture using a bone graft and temporary K-wire fixation: a case report

Non-union of radial neck fractures is not common in adults, and surgical treatment is rarely required. This case report documents non-union of the radial neck with persistent pain around the elbow joint and tenderness over the neck of the radius, limited range of motion for 12 months. The authors performed an iliac bone graft and temporary K-wire fixation for non-union of the radial neck after an isolated radial neck fracture.

A 54-year-old woman slipped with her hand outstretched 12 months prior to presentation. She was diagnosed with a radial neck fracture, but her injury was eventually diagnosed as a non-union fracture, and she was transferred to our hospital. The patient had tenderness of the radial head and neck and an increasing tendency of pain in the forearm during external rotation with resistance. Flexion was a maximum of 80°, extension was limited to 20°, and internal rotation and external rotation were decreased to 60°. On plain radiographs, a clear radiolucent shadow was present between the bone fragment and radius. After the autogenous iliac bone graft, a temporary K-wire was fixed, and at eight weeks postoperatively, the bone was united. The patient is in the month 24 of postoperative follow-up and is able to perform daily activities without tenderness.

If elbow joint pain, tenderness, and limitation of range of motion are present in non-union of radial neck fracture, surgical treatment is necessary. If there is no injury to the ligament around the elbow or instability, the authors consider bone graft and temporary K-wire fixation as an excellent treatment option for bony union and early exercise of the joint.