Radial Neck Fracture With 180° Rotational Displacement in Pediatrics: A Case Report of a 6-Year-Old Child

Radial neck fracture is one of the rare traumas in the upper extremity among the children accounting for 5%-10% of the pediatric elbow injuries. The valgus strain-induced radial neck displacement often ranges from 10° to 90. Rotational displacement with 180° rotation is very rare. 

In this case report, we present a 6-year-old child who had radial neck fracture with 180 rotation and joint surface tilt toward the distal direction after falling on her outstretched hand. The close reduction was conducted under the fluoroscopic guide and the radial neck-shaft was restored with 15 angulation. The elbow was immobilized by a long forearm cast for 3 weeks. Based on conventional radiography taken after 3 weeks, a complete union was achieved. Six-month follow-up showed no radial growth disturbance and radial head avascular necrosis. 

The radial head could be displaced in the form of 180° rotation during the radial neck fracture. In this regard, careful attention to the joint surface is important to minimize the lateral displacements or angulation and to avoid any misdiagnosis. The closed reduction was a successful treatment and caused no complications.