Prompt Recognition

There is a wide range of traumatic elbow injuries that require prompt recognition and management. Fractures of the elbow are common in children; however, because of the complexity of radiographic evaluation in skeletally immature patients, diagnosis of pathology may be missed or misinterpreted, leading to delay in treatment and complications. Careful history and thorough physical examination and utilization of a systematic approach to radiographic evaluation will reduce the chance of a delayed or missed diagnosis. This article will provide an overview of 5 pediatric elbow injuries not to miss, including potential complications and unique considerations for each fracture type to avoid common pitfalls.