Fractured Proximal Radius, Anterior View

Description

Centered in the anterior forearm, the proximal radius is shown with a fracture line at the radial head and neck region, with the radial head displaced relative to the shaft. Medially, the ulna remains aligned and provides the reference for the proximal radioulnar joint, where the radial head normally sits against the radial notch of the ulna and within the annular ligament. Proximal and slightly lateral, the contour of the radial head indicates its articular surface that would face the humeral capitulum at the elbow, while the distal shaft continues inferiorly along the lateral forearm. Radial head and neck fractures are common after a fall on an outstretched hand, and displacement matters because it directly affects radiocapitellar congruity and forearm rotation (pronation and supination). Loss of the normal relationship between the radial head and the ulna can signal instability patterns such as Essex-Lopresti injury, where the interosseous membrane and distal radioulnar joint may also be compromised, changing management from simple immobilization to fixation or replacement. Subtle malalignment here often explains persistent mechanical block and limited extension after trauma. Small step-offs count. Orthopedic and emergency medicine teaching files use this type of clean anterior bony view to correlate exam findings with radiographic landmarks, and to explain Mason classification concepts before students move on to CT or operative photos. It also fits well in patient-facing fracture education materials that need clear bone geometry without distracting soft tissue, and in surgical planning discussions around open reduction, internal fixation, or radial head arthroplasty. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.