Sail sign due to radial head fracture

Case contributed by Mohammad Taghi Niknejad
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Right elbow trauma due to falling

Patient Data

Age: 30
Gender: Male

Vertical fracture of the radial head with elevation of the anterior fat pad are visible.

Case Discussion

Elevation of the anterior fat pad of the elbow on lateral x ray is compatible with hemarthrosis and usually due to radial head fracture in adults which create a silhouette similar to a billowing spinnaker sail from a boat.

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