Monteggiaféle

Monteggiaféle is a term used in radiology to describe a specific type of fracture-dislocation of the proximal ulna. It is characterized by a fracture of the ulna shaft accompanied by a dislocation of the radial head. This injury pattern is named after the Italian surgeon Giovanni Battista Monteggia, who first described it in 1814. There are four main types of Monteggia fractures, classified based on the direction of radial head dislocation and the presence or absence of an associated ulna fracture. Type I is the most common, with anterior displacement of the radial head. Type II involves posterior displacement, Type III lateral displacement, and Type IV involves anterior displacement with a fracture of the proximal radius as well as the ulna. These fractures are often caused by a fall on an outstretched hand with the forearm pronated, resulting in a valgus or varus force applied to the elbow. Symptoms typically include severe elbow pain, swelling, and deformity. Radiographic imaging, including anteroposterior and lateral views of the elbow and forearm, is essential for diagnosis and classification. Treatment depends on the type of Monteggia fracture and the age of the patient, and can range from closed reduction and casting to surgical intervention to restore alignment and stability of the elbow joint.