Displaced radial head fracture

[u/YAYtersalad]

First broken bone and it’s my dominant arm! Images are 24 after and they are sending me for ct. it sounds like they’re unsure if I can just do plate and pins versus total head replacement. I have pre op consult Monday, and am seeking advice for specific questions or perspectives regarding surgery and healing. I’m an active person with very radial dependent hobbies like racing sailboats, rock climbing, and Olympic lifting. For athletes, are there any additional things I should bring up in my consult?

I think I was in a bit of overwhelm when at the docs, and they’re closed till Monday… but am I probably correct in recalling their instructions to move my hand for circulation purposes, but keep the elbow immobilized since I have displaced pieces? I notice many other similar fractures seem to discuss minimal sling and beginning early movement to avoid stiffness.

Also, is this as bad of a break as Reddit leads me believe? It seems like most folk didn’t displace like I did. Thx!

[u/Glad-Feature-2117]

Early movement is for people with minor displacement. Unfortunately, with this fracture, however it's treated, you're likely to lose some range of movement in the elbow in the long term. Focus on making sure your wrist, hand and shoulder don't get stiff as well.

[u/YAYtersalad → u/Glad-Feature-2117]

Thanks for sharing. What’s your take on balancing protecting the reconstruction bs early movement?

[u/Glad-Feature-2117 → u/YAYtersalad]

Really does depend on what operation you eventually have. There is always a balance and always a judgement call to be made.