Monteggia Fracture eMedicine Orthopedics

Description: Article by Putigna, Strohmeyer & Ursone 2007
The eponym Monteggia fracture is most precisely used to refer to a dislocation of the proximal radioulnar joint in association with a forearm fracture. These injuries are relatively uncommon, accounting for less than 5% of all forearm fractures. The ulna fracture is usually clinically and radiographically apparent. Findings associated with the concomitant radial head dislocation are often subtle and can be overlooked. The keys to successful diagnosis of a Monteggia fracture are clinical suspicion and radiographs of the entire forearm and elbow. Properly assessing the nature of this injury in a timely fashion is imperative in order to prevent permanent disability or limb dysfunction.
Synonyms and related keywords: fracture-dislocation involving the proximal ulna and radius, ulna fracture, Monteggia lesion, radial head dislocation, forearm fracture, broken arm