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A medial epicondyle fracture is an avulsion injury to the medial epicondyle of the humerus; the prominence of bone on the inside of the elbow. Medial epicondyle fractures account for 10% elbow fractures in children. 25% of injuries are associated with a dislocation of the elbow.
Medial epicondyle fractures are typically seen in children and usually occur as a result of a fall onto an out-stretched hand. This often happen from falls from a scooter, roller skates, or monkey bars, as well as from injuries sustained playing sports. The peak age of occurrence is 10–12 years old.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising and a decreased ability to move or use the elbow. Initial pain may be managed with NSAIDs, opioids, and splinting. The management of pain in children typically follows guidelines, such as those from the Royal College of Emergency Medicine.
The diagnosis is confirmed with X-rays and occasionally with a CT scan.