What is proximal ulnar fracture?

Proximal ulna fractures is an umbrella term for a wide spectrum of injuries, ranging from simple fragility fractures to high energy complex trauma. This term includes fractures involving the ulno-trochlear joint (olecranon & coronoid) and the proximal radioulnar joint (monteggia fracture-dislocation and its variants).

How do you treat an ulnar fracture?

Treatment for an ulna fracture commonly involves immobilizing the forearm in a cast or brace for several weeks in order to promote proper healing. Medication may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and treat pain.

How serious is an ulna fracture?

Because of the potential for infection, this is an open fracture, which requires rapid medical treatment. Adults are more likely to shatter both bones following a forearm injury due to the high force necessary to break the radius or ulna in the center of the bone. Usually, if only one bone breaks, it is the ulna.

How long do children’s fractures take to heal?

How long will a fracture take to heal? Most simple fractures will heal in 6 weeks; younger children may heal fractures even sooner. More severe fractures, especially those involving joints and growth plates, can take up to three months or more for full healing to occur.

Does a fractured ulna need a cast?

A stable, simple and isolated fracture of the ulna (secondary to a direct blow) can be treated with a cast for about four to six weeks. Your doctor will closely follow your progress with X-rays to assure nondisplacement of the fracture and proper bone healing.

How common are ulna fractures?

It is made up of two bones: the radius and the ulna. Forearm fractures are common in childhood, accounting for more than 40% of all childhood fractures. About three out of four forearm fractures in children occur at the wrist end of the radius.

Does a broken ulna require surgery?

Surgical Treatment Surgeons recommend an operation to fix the broken forearm if it is broken into many pieces, if the bones are far apart, if both bones are broken, if the bone sticks out through the skin, or if the nerves or blood vessels are injured.

How long does it take for a broken wrist to heal for a child?

Depending on the size of the fracture, it may take six months to a year before your child’s wrist can fully straighten, bend and twist. However, most children do not need physiotherapy.