Incarcerated fracture (avulsion) of medial epicondyle of left humerus digital illustration

Incarcerated fracture (avulsion) of medial epicondyle of left humerus Save


ICD-10 code: S42.448

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

Incarcerated Fracture (Avulsion) of Medial Epicondyle of Left Humerus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

An incarcerated fracture (avulsion) of the medial epicondyle of the left humerus is a specific type of fracture that occurs when a small piece of bone breaks off from the upper arm bone near the elbow joint. This type of injury is most common in children and adolescents, particularly those involved in throwing sports such as baseball or softball.

Here are some common causes, symptoms, and treatments for an incarcerated fracture (avulsion) of the medial epicondyle of the left humerus:

  1. Causes: This type of injury usually occurs as a result of a sudden, forceful pull on the forearm muscles during a throwing motion. The muscles pull so hard that they can actually tear a small piece of bone away from the rest of the humerus bone. In some cases, the bone fragment may become trapped in the elbow joint, which is what makes this a type of "incarcerated" fracture.
  2. Symptoms: The most common symptom of an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle is pain and swelling in the elbow joint. There may also be a noticeable deformity or bump on the inside of the elbow. In severe cases, the arm may be unable to move and the patient may experience numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers.
  3. Treatment: Treatment for an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle usually involves immobilizing the arm in a cast or brace for several weeks to allow the bone to heal. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the bone fragment and reattach it to the rest of the bone. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises may also be recommended to help the patient regain strength and mobility in the affected arm.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle of the left humerus, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Delaying treatment can lead to further complications and may prolong the healing process.

Overall, an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle of the left humerus is a serious injury that requires prompt and proper medical care. With the right treatment and rehabilitation, most patients are able to fully recover and return to their regular activities over time.