A Pediatric Monteggia Fracture Unattended for Five Years

Abstract

Background: The Monteggia fracture classically involves a proximal third ulna fracture that is accompanied by radial head subluxation or dislocation. Monteggia fractures are highly uncommon, as they account for just 1% of pediatric forearm fractures. However, Monteggia fractures continue to be a concern for pediatric orthopedic surgeons due to the difficulties in diagnosing and treating missing radial head dislocations and late instability. Case: We report the case of a 14-year-old boy who suffered from a neglected Monteggia fracture that was missed for five long years. The patient reported to the clinic with limited range of motion and elbow pain during activities. No neurological or other significant complications were observed. X-ray and Computed Tomography (CT) scan findings confirmed the diagnosis of a neglected Monteggia fracture. The patient was managed through rehabilitation involving physiotherapy sessions since the parents refused surgical intervention. Conclusion: Our case is unique to the present since it is the only case, to the best of our knowledge, with such an increased time duration of neglected Monteggia fracture, and additionally, it was managed with rehabilitation only. However, further research is necessary to study more alternative management options for the management of neglected Monteggia fractures.