Medial Condyle Fracture (Elbow)

Description

The medial condyle is the knob of bone on the inner side of the elbow. This is an uncommon injury that runs into the joint and the growth plate, and it can be subtle, so it is sometimes diagnosed with extra imaging.

How it happens (the mechanism)

A fall transmits force to the inner elbow and breaks the medial condyle, carrying part of the joint surface and growth plate with it. Because much of a young child’s elbow is still cartilage and not yet visible on X-ray, the fracture can look minor while involving important structures — which is why additional views or imaging are sometimes used to be sure of the diagnosis.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow, with reluctance to move it.

Doctor examination and imaging

The doctor examines the inner elbow; X-rays, sometimes with additional views or advanced imaging, confirm the fracture and its position.

Treatment

A barely shifted fracture may be treated in a cast with close follow-up. A displaced fracture is fixed with pins or a screw to hold the joint surface and growth plate in good position.

Recovery and long-term outlook

With accurate diagnosis and good alignment, these heal well; lining up the joint surface is what protects long-term elbow motion.

When to call the doctor

Call the office right away if your child’s fingers become numb, pale, blue, or cold; pain keeps worsening even after raising the arm and giving medicine; swelling does not improve with elevation; the cast feels too tight, cracked, or wet, or smells bad; or your child develops a fever.

Learn more

OrthoInfo (AAOS) — Elbow Fractures in Children: orthoinfo.aaos.org

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific concerns about your child, consult a board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeon.