A radial head fracture is one of the most common elbow injuries—often caused by a fall onto an outstretched arm. These injuries can range from small, stable cracks to complex fractures that require surgical repair.

At New York Orthopedics, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating elbow fractures using the most advanced nonoperative and operative techniques to restore motion, strength, and stability.

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What Is a Radial Head Fracture?

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The radial head is the top part of the radius bone that meets the humerus (upper arm bone) and ulna (forearm bone) at the elbow joint. It helps the forearm rotate and stabilize the elbow during motion.

A radial head fracture typically occurs when:

• You fall on an outstretched hand,
• Suffer a direct blow to the elbow, or
• Experience a sports-related impact or collision.

Common Symptoms

• Pain and swelling around the outside of the elbow
• Limited ability to bend or rotate the forearm
• Bruising or stiffness
• Clicking, catching, or mechanical block with movement

If pain and motion loss persist after an elbow injury, it’s important to see an orthopedic specialist for X-rays or advanced imaging.

How Radial Head Fractures Are Diagnosed

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Your orthopedic surgeon will:

• Perform a physical exam to assess motion and joint stability
• Order X-rays to determine fracture type and displacement
• Sometimes use a CT scan for complex fractures or pre-surgical planning

Fractures are typically classified by the Mason system, which helps guide treatment:

• Type I: Nondisplaced (minor crack)
• Type II: Displaced or angulated fragment
• Type III: Comminuted (multiple pieces)
• Type IV: Associated with elbow dislocation

Nonoperative (Conservative) Treatment

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Most Type I and some Type II fractures can be treated without surgery.
Your orthopedic specialist may recommend:

• Immobilization in a sling or light splint for a few days to reduce pain and swelling
• Early motion exercises to prevent stiffness once pain improves
• Physical therapy focusing on range of motion and gradual strengthening
• Pain management with NSAIDs and ice

Healing usually occurs within 6–8 weeks, though mild stiffness may persist temporarily.

Operative Treatment Options

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Surgery may be necessary for Type II–IV fractures when:

• Bone fragments are displaced or unstable
• There is a mechanical block to motion
• The fracture occurs with ligament injury or elbow dislocation

Surgical options include:

1. Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):
   Metal screws or plates are used to realign and stabilize the fractured pieces for proper healing.
2. Radial Head Excision:
   In select cases with small, isolated fragments or low-demand patients, the damaged portion of the bone may be removed.
3. Radial Head Arthroplasty (Replacement):
   For severely comminuted fractures or combined ligament injuries, the radial head is replaced with a metal implant to restore joint function and stability.

Post-surgical rehab includes early motion exercises and guided physical therapy to regain strength and prevent stiffness.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

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• Nonoperative recovery: Most patients regain near-full motion in 2–3 months.
• Post-surgical recovery: May take 3–6 months depending on fracture severity and fixation stability.

Your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist will work together to:

• Prevent elbow stiffness
• Restore forearm rotation
• Rebuild strength for daily activities and sports

Expert Elbow Care at New York Orthopedics

At New York Orthopedics, our team provides individualized care for elbow fractures and upper extremity injuries. We specialize in both nonoperative management and advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques to help patients regain full function safely and efficiently.

Whether you’ve sustained a sports injury, fall, or work-related fracture, our Manhattan orthopedic specialists are here to help you get back to your active lifestyle.

Locations: Midtown Manhattan | Upper East Side | Westchester

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