Nondisplaced fracture of lateral condyle of unspecified humerus digital illustration

Nondisplaced fracture of lateral condyle of unspecified humerus Save


ICD-10 code: S42.456

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

Nondisplaced Fracture of Lateral Condyle of Unspecified Humerus: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A nondisplaced fracture of the lateral condyle of the humerus is a common injury that occurs when the elbow experiences a direct blow. This type of injury is often seen in children and can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the arm. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for a nondisplaced fracture of the lateral condyle of the humerus.

Causes

A nondisplaced fracture of the lateral condyle of the humerus is caused by a direct blow to the elbow. This can occur during a fall or when playing contact sports such as football or hockey. Children are more vulnerable to this type of injury because their bones are still developing and are not as strong as those of adults.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a nondisplaced fracture of the lateral condyle of the humerus include pain, swelling, and tenderness around the elbow joint. There may also be difficulty moving the arm, and the affected arm may feel weaker than normal. In some cases, there may be a visible deformity or a popping sound at the time of injury.

Treatment

The treatment for a nondisplaced fracture of the lateral condyle of the humerus depends on the severity of the injury. In most cases, the injury can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce pain and swelling. Pain medication may also be prescribed to help manage discomfort.

  1. Immobilization: In some cases, a cast or splint may be used to immobilize the affected arm and prevent further injury. The length of immobilization will depend on the severity of the injury, but it typically ranges from two to six weeks.
  2. Physical therapy: Once the arm has healed, physical therapy may be recommended to help restore strength and range of motion to the affected arm.
  3. Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture. This is typically only recommended if the fracture is severe or if it is causing significant pain or disability.

If you or someone you know has a nondisplaced fracture of the lateral condyle of the humerus, it is important to seek medical attention right away. With proper treatment and care, most people are able to fully recover from this type of injury and return to their normal activities.