Citation

Ramponi DR, Kaufmann JA. Adv. Emerg. Nurs. J. 2012; 34(2): 99-109.

Affiliation

School of Nursing & Health Sciences, Robert Morris University, Moon Township, Pennsylvania; (Drs Ramponi and Kaufmann); Emergency Department, Heritage Valley Sewickley, Sewickley, Pennsylvania (Dr Ramponi); and St. Clair Health System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Dr Kaufmann).

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/TME.0b013e318251cdba

PMID

22561220

Abstract

Elbow complaints are frequently encountered in the emergency setting. Mechanism of injury often involves direct trauma or a fall on the outstretched hand and arm. Abnormal findings on elbow radiographs can be challenging to identify, thus a systematic approach is essential to identify subtle findings especially with occult fractures. Maintaining a high index of suspicion, identification of normal and abnormal fat pad signs, and proper alignment of specific anatomical lines on elbow radiographs can assist in the identification of hidden fractures.

Language: en