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Biceps tendon blocks reduction of isolated radial head dislocation
1Department of Surgery, University of Western Ontario Faculty of Medicine, London, Canada.
Orthopaedic Review
|February 1, 1987
Summary
Delayed diagnosis of unreducible radial head dislocation is common in children. Prompt recognition via radiography and surgical intervention, addressing biceps tendon displacement, ensures stable reduction and excellent outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- Radial head dislocation is a common elbow injury in children.
- Diagnosis can be delayed due to subtle radiographic findings.
- Unreduced dislocations may require surgical intervention.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old girl presented with an unreducible radial head dislocation.
- Initial radiographs revealed the radial neck malalignment, indicative of dislocation.
- No associated elbow or neurovascular injuries were noted.
Findings:
- Closed reduction was unstable.
- Open reduction identified the biceps tendon obstructing the radial head.
- The tendon's posterior and lateral displacement around the radial neck prevented reduction.
- Anatomical reduction of the radial head into the capitulum achieved stability.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of careful radiographic assessment for pediatric radial head dislocations.
- Demonstrates that biceps tendon interposition can complicate reduction.
- Emphasizes that prompt surgical intervention can lead to excellent functional recovery in pediatric radial head dislocations.