AJR. American journal of roentgenology
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Aug 1984
Case ReportsRadial head-capitellum view in elbow trauma: clinical application and radiographic-anatomic correlation.
The radial head-capitellum view, first reported 2 years ago, has proved useful in the evaluation of elbow trauma. Minimally displaced or nondisplaced fractures of the radial head, capitellum, and coronoid process are better demonstrated on this special projection than on traditional radiographs of the elbow. To test the accuracy of this view, 50 patients with trauma to the elbow were examined and routine anteroposterior, lateral, and external oblique radiographs were compared with this special angled projection. ⋯ It revealed that fractures of the posterior half of the radial head were particularly difficult to diagnose on the traditional lateral view. The radial head-capitellum view not only distinctly delineated these fractures, it showed the full extent of their articular displacement. The authors recommend the use of this technique in all cases of chronic and acute trauma to the elbow joint.