The British journal of radiology
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In this injury, a sudden pull on the pronated, extended arm of a child up to 5 years of age is followed by refusal to use the arm. After a simple flexion, supination and extension manoeuvre the child starts using the arm in minutes. Radiographs are said to be normal. ⋯ In any doubtful case early repeat radiography is essential taking matched views of both elbows, even if non-standard. A collection of 28 radiographs has been analysed, two recent typical contrasting cases are presented, two signs to identify an oblique view of a normal elbow are described and the literature is reviewed. If the best radiograph available in an injured elbow in a child is a normal oblique view in pronation, pulled elbow is a likely diagnosis.