Mason classification of radial head fractures

Last revised by Mohammad Osama Hussein Yonso on 24 Jan 2024

The Mason classification ( sometimes known as Mason-Johnston classification) is used to classify radial head fractures and is useful when assessing further treatment options 1-2.

  • type I: non-displaced radial head fractures (or small marginal fractures), also known as a "chisel" fracture

  • type II: partial articular fractures with displacement (>2 mm)

  • type III: comminuted fractures involving the entire radial head

    • IIIa: fracture of the entire radial neck, with the head, completely displaced from the shaft

    • IIIb: articular fracture involving the entire head, consisting of more than two large fragments

    • IIIc: fracture with a tilted and impacted articular segment

  • type IV: fracture of the radial head with dislocation of the elbow joint

In general type I injuries can be treated conservatively whereas type II injuries require open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Type III injuries often require early complete excision of the radial head 2

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