Elbow Fractures Specialist

What exactly is an elbow fracture?

An elbow fracture is a break in one of the three bones that make up the elbow joint.

How are elbow fractures treated?

In adults, these fractures are either stable, meaning the elbow can be moved very quickly, or unstable, meaning surgery is likely required to stabilize the bones. Elbow fractures in adults are rarely treated with cast or splints because those are prone to making the elbow become stiff and lose function. With either non-surgical or surgical treatment, range-of-motion exercises, often with a therapist, are started quickly to avoid stiffness.

In children, elbow fractures are very often able to be placed into a cast to heal since kids are much less likely to have a problem with stiffness after immobilization. Because of the number of growth plates in the elbow that can’t be seen on x-ray, pediatric elbow fractures can sometimes be difficult to diagnose. Occasionally pediatric elbow fractures will require surgery which usually means stabilizing the bone temporarily with pins. Unlike adults, children usually don’t require formal physical therapy to regain motion.

What is surgery for a wrist fracture like?

Surgery for an elbow fracture is often an outpatient procedure done with general anesthesia, but is sometimes performed in the hospital. Dr. Fitzgibbons performs outpatient surgeries at the Massachusetts Avenue Surgery Center, and hospital-based procedures at either Shady Grove or Suburban hospital.