Monteggia variant with Salter-Harris fracture of the radial head: case report and literature review.

Abstract

Introduction: The Monteggia fracture is a fracture to the proximal third of ulna associated with a radial head dislocation. Although this is well described and classified in adults, it is uncommon in children. Identifying growth plate trauma and subsequent surgical management are of critical importance. This report identifies a unique variant of Monteggia fracture with a Salter-Harris Type I injury of the radial head instead of a dislocation, and how it was successfully stabilised with a closed reduction.

Case rport: We present a case of a nine 9 year-old female admitted to our unit with a deformed upper extremity following a fall from height. This was a closed and isolated injury without neurovascular compromise. Radiographs revealed a displaced fracture to the proximal ulna shaft. Unlike a true Monteggia, the radial fracture went through the proximal physis with anterior divergence of the distal fragment. The radiocapitellar joint remained congruent. The ulna fracture was stabilized with open reduction and plate osteosynthesis whilst the radial injury underwent closed reduction and intramedullary pinning with excellent outcomes and maintenance of full range of motion.

Conclusion: This case highlights a new variant and successful outcome following a closed reduction intramedullary fixation technique in this emergent pattern of injury. We highlight the need for a classification of these fractures in children.