Monteggia fracture-dislocations
A previously healthy female, 53-years of age, fell when she tripped while carrying a laundry basket down steps landing on the dorsal aspects of her flexed elbows, and had immediate pain in both upper extremities.
Radiographs revealed bilateral (right- and left-sided) Monteggia fractures with posterior dislocations of both radial heads (Bado type-II injuries). ORIF was performed with placement of plates, screws a single cerclage wire (left-side) and interfragmentary lag screws.
She most recently returned for routine follow-up at 1 year following fracture surgery with excellent radiographic and clinical results including healed Monteggia fractures, complete resolution of pain, excellent range of motion, and she has returned to all activities of daily living.
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Figure A
Anteroposterior (AP), and lateral injury radiographs of the right-sided Monteggia fracture-dislocation and lateral radiograph of the left-sided Monteggia fracture-dislocation; respectively. -
Figure B
AP and lateral radiographs at 12 months illustrating healed Monteggia fracture-dislocations in excellent alignment. -
*Kloen P, Rubel IF, Farley TD, Weiland AJ, Helfet DL: “Bilateral Monteggia fractures.” Am J Orthop. 2003 Feb;32(2):98-100.
Tags: David Helfet MD