Which X-ray views are routinely obtained to evaluate a suspected radial head fracture?

Which X-ray views are routinely obtained to evaluate a suspected radial head fracture?

• A. AP and lateral views.
• B. AP and PA views.
• C. AP and oblique views.
• D. AP and lateral views.

Answer: (C)

When evaluating a suspected radial head fracture, two standard elbow radiographs are obtained: anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views. The AP view provides a frontal look at the distal humerus, radius, and ulna to assess the radiocapitellar alignment and detect obvious fracture lines or joint-space widening. The lateral view is essential for visualizing the radial head/neck in profile, revealing any posterior displacement, subtle fracture fragments, and the relationship of the radiocapitellar joint. An oblique view can be useful as an additional view if the fracture is not clearly seen on AP and lateral or if a specific anatomical detail is still in question, but it is not routinely part of the initial imaging set. Therefore, the standard, routinely obtained combination is AP and lateral views.

When evaluating a suspected radial head fracture, two standard elbow radiographs are obtained: anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views. The AP view provides a frontal look at the distal humerus, radius, and ulna to assess the radiocapitellar alignment and detect obvious fracture lines or joint-space widening. The lateral view is essential for visualizing the radial head/neck in profile, revealing any posterior displacement, subtle fracture fragments, and the relationship of the radiocapitellar joint. An oblique view can be useful as an additional view if the fracture is not clearly seen on AP and lateral or if a specific anatomical detail is still in question, but it is not routinely part of the initial imaging set. Therefore, the standard, routinely obtained combination is AP and lateral views.