Ipsilateral proximal and distal radius fractures without elbow dislocation: A case report and literature review

Ipsilateral proximal and distal radius fractures without elbow dislocation are extremely rare injuries and a few cases have been reported. Currently, there is no well-established consensus regarding their optimal management.

We report the case of a 57-year-old woman who had a right bipolar radius fracture after falling from a standing height. The radiological investigation showed a comminuted distal radius fracture and a fracture of the radial head without elbow dislocation. The patient underwent surgical treatment and followed a rehabilitation protocol involving the elbow and wrist starting from the day after surgery with satisfactory clinical and radiological results at 1-year follow-up.

The diagnosis and treatment of these fractures are challenging. A systematic clinical examination of the wrist and elbow, combined with X-rays and a CT scan of the elbow, is crucial for diagnosing this type of fracture. Management should take into account the fracture type, radial length, interosseous membrane disruption, and the need to assess any associated injuries to the elbow and wrist.

In this case report, we highlighted the importance of conducting a systematic clinical and radiological examination of the elbow after wrist trauma to establish the diagnosis. Then, we proceeded to provide appropriate management based on the type of fracture in order to standardize the treatment approach.