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

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


ICD-10 code: S42.449

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

Incarcerated Fracture (Avulsion) of Medial Epicondyle of Unspecified Humerus

If you have an incarcerated fracture or avulsion of the medial epicondyle of the humerus, it means that a piece of bone has been broken off and is still attached to the tendon. This type of injury is common in children who play sports that involve throwing or repetitive overhead motions.

The medial epicondyle is a bony prominence on the inside of the elbow, where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach. When an avulsion fracture occurs, the tendon pulls a piece of bone away from the rest of the bone. In some cases, the bone fragment remains attached to the tendon and becomes trapped between the tendon and the bone.

Symptoms of an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle may include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the elbow. In some cases, the injury may also cause numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers.

If you suspect that you or your child has an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor will likely order an X-ray or other imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle typically involves immobilization of the elbow to allow the bone to heal. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the bone fragment and reattach the tendon.

  1. Rest and immobilization
  2. Pain management
  3. Physical therapy
  4. Surgery (in severe cases)

Recovery time for an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment used. In most cases, it can take several weeks to several months for the bone to heal properly and for full range of motion to be restored.

If you or your child has suffered an incarcerated fracture of the medial epicondyle, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions for care and recovery. With proper treatment and rehabilitation, most people are able to fully recover from this type of injury and return to their regular activities.