Abstract
The Monteggia injury was initially described by Giovanni Monteggia as a proximal third ulnar fracture associated with a radial head dislocation. Since that time, the Monteggia fracture eponym has evolved to encompass any fracture of the ulna with a radial head dislocation. Furthermore, it is now commonly used to describe a radiocapitellar subluxation or dislocation with an associated ulnar fracture or deformation. Monteggia fractures in the pediatric population can result in excellent outcomes if recognized early and treated promptly. Reduction of the fracture or deformity of the ulna usually results in reduction of the radial head. However, the chronically dislocated radial head from delayed recognition results in a more difficult injury and treatment strategy. Multiple surgical options for chronic Monteggia injuries have been described. Unfortunately, the surgical outcomes are less reliable for chronic injuries. The treatment options for chronic Monteggia fractures are still evolving and future large clinical trials may yield more clarity. It is important to promptly recognize the Monteggia injury to avoid an unacceptable outcome.
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Lattanza, L.L., Chen, S. (2014). Monteggia Fracture-Dislocations. In: Abzug, J., Kozin, S., Zlotolow, D. (eds) The Pediatric Upper Extremity. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-8758-6_50-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-8758-6_50-1
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