Displaced fracture (avulsion) of medial epicondyle of right humerus digital illustration

Displaced fracture (avulsion) of medial epicondyle of right humerus Save


ICD-10 code: S42.441

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Displaced Fracture (Avulsion) of Medial Epicondyle of Right Humerus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A displaced fracture (avulsion) of the medial epicondyle of the right humerus is a common injury that occurs in children and young adults. It is caused by a sudden, forceful pull on the forearm muscles, which can lead to a fracture of the bony prominence on the inner side of the elbow. This type of fracture is more common in sports that involve throwing, such as baseball and softball.

Symptoms of a Displaced Fracture (Avulsion) of Medial Epicondyle of Right Humerus

The symptoms of a displaced fracture (avulsion) of the medial epicondyle of the right humerus include pain, swelling, and bruising in the elbow region. The patient may also experience difficulty moving the elbow joint and have a visibly deformed elbow. In some cases, there may be numbness or tingling in the fingers or hand.

Treatment of a Displaced Fracture (Avulsion) of Medial Epicondyle of Right Humerus

The treatment of a displaced fracture (avulsion) of the medial epicondyle of the right humerus depends on the severity of the injury. In minor cases, the patient may only require rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce pain and swelling. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reattach the bone fragment to the humerus.

  1. Rest: The patient should avoid any activities that cause pain or discomfort in the elbow region. This may require a temporary break from sports or other physical activities.
  2. Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and pain. Ice should be applied for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
  3. Compression: Wrapping the elbow with an elastic bandage can help reduce swelling and provide support to the joint. The bandage should not be too tight, as this can restrict blood flow to the arm.
  4. Elevation: Keeping the arm elevated above heart level can help reduce swelling and promote healing.

In some cases, the patient may require physical therapy to regain strength, range of motion, and flexibility in the elbow joint. This may involve exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve coordination and balance.

Conclusion

A displaced fracture (avulsion) of the medial epicondyle of the right humerus is a painful injury that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have this type of injury, as early treatment can help