Imaging Case of the Week 295 Answer

The lateral x-ray shows plastic bowing of the forearm bones. There is an associated dislocation of the radial head as indicated by the abnormal radiocapitellar line.

The patient underwent operative reduction.

On the AP and lateral elbow x-rays, always pay attention to the radiocapitellar line. A line drawn through the centre of the radial head should always pass through the centre of the capitellum on both the AP and lateral views of the elbow.

Reference: Fundamentals of Diagnostic Radiology by Brant and Helms ,4th Edition