A high correlation between radial head fracture and forearm interosseous membrane injury

Abstract

Objective To evaluate correlation of radial head fracture with forearm interosseous membrane (IOM) injury.Methods Twenty-six patients with radial head fractures were studied prospectively between September 2007 and June 2010.There were 15 men and 11 women,with an average age of 37.6years (range,21-53).According to the Mason classification,there were 7 cases of type Ⅰ,9 cases of type Ⅱ,10 cases of type ⅢL All patients were subjected to forearm X-ray,CT scans and the MR within a week.Clinical and radiographic data of all the patients were collected.Spearman rank correlation statistical analysis was used to analyze the correlation between the radial head fracture and the IOM injury.Results The radial head fractures and IOM injury were directly related.The IOM injury was noted in all type of radial head fracture.The more severity radial head fracture had,the more IOM injury happened.In Mason Ⅰ-Ⅲ fractures,IOM injury was found in 2,4 and 7 cases respectively.The different degree of radial head fracture caused different effects on IOM injury.The severity of radial head fracture was correlated with damage degree of IOM.In Mason type Ⅰ and type Ⅱ fractures,the IOM injury were just partial disruption with distal part of the IOM and did not reach the biomechanically essential central band.In type Ⅲ fractures,central band disruption was found in 3 cases.Conclusion Mason Ⅰ-Ⅲ radial head fractures are associated with forearm IOM injury.There was a positive correlation between radial head fractures and IOM injury.If IOM lesions are suspected,magnetic resonance imaging should be performed,especially Mason Ⅲ fractures. Key words: Radius fractures; Forearm injuries; Wounds and injuries