Essex-Lopresti fracture

Essex-Lopresti fracture
SpecialtyOrthopaedics
SymptomsDislocation of the forearm
ComplicationsMal-union
CausesSudden fall on an outstretched hand
TreatmentOpen reduction and internal fixation with plates
PrognosisGood if treated early
DeathsNot applicable

The Essex-Lopresti fracture is a fracture of the radial head of the forearm with concomitant dislocation of the distal radio-ulnar joint along with disruption of the thin interosseous membrane which holds them together. The injury is named after Peter Essex-Lopresti who described it in 1951.