Elbow fracture
An elbow fracture is breakage of one or more bones of the elbow joint.
It is usually caused by trauma, either by a direct or indirect contusion.
Types elbow fracture
- Fracture of the radial head. Usually caused by a fall from a bike from a bike or, by a direct blow to the elbow against the floor or a glancing blow, by a fall on the hand that affects the radial head.
- Fracture of olecranon. The olecranon is the upper end of the ulna; is projecting that point to bend the arm. Being directly under the skin is unprotected and can easily fracture if you have tried to cushion a blow or a fall on the elbow. Usually require surgical treatment.
- Fracture of the distal humerus, ie in the area where the elbow joint is formed. Usually due to a blow and fractures are considered serious because they often affect the structure of the elbow.
Symptoms
- Severe pain.
- Swelling and bruising around the elbow (hematoma).
- A lump or visible deformity over the fracture site.
- Numbness in fingers, hand or forearm.
- Decreased range of motion.
Risk Factors
These factors increase your chance of suffering a broken elbow. Tell your doctor if any of the following risk factors:
- Decreased muscle mass.
- Osteoporosis.
- Appropriate sports.
- Elderly
Prevention
- Avoid the risks of any trauma to the elbow.
- Build strong muscles to stay active and agile.
- Eat a diet high in calcium and vitamin D.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. You need to keep the fractured bone is attached to weld. Surely surgery and anesthesia will be required to place the bone in place. For immobilization in a cast or splint is used (Average plaster), and plates and screws to fix the bone in place. Sometimes necessary to replace the joint with a prosthesis to replace the radial head. Your doctor may prescribe different medications, as pain intensity.
The hyaluronic acid es una alternativa a los esteroides, is used to increase the fluid in a joint, so that the cushioning cartilage protecting.
The growth factors se emplean para mejorar el estado inmunológico, reduce potential inflammatory processes and accelerate the physiological processes of tissue repair.