Which statement correctly lists radial head fracture types in order?

Which statement correctly lists radial head fracture types in order?

• A. Type 1 Non-displaced; Type 2 Displaced; Type 3 Comminuted; Type 4 Associated with elbow dislocation.
• B. Type 1 Non-displaced; Type 2 Associated with elbow dislocation; Type 3 Comminuted; Type 4 Displaced.
• C. Type 1 Non-displaced; Type 2 Displaced; Type 3 Associated with elbow dislocation; Type 4 Comminuted.
• D. Type 1 Displaced; Type 2 Non-displaced; Type 3 Comminuted; Type 4 Associated with elbow dislocation.

Answer: (A)

Radial head fractures are classified by the Mason system, which sorts injuries by displacement and complexity. The progression starts with non-displaced (or minimally displaced) fractures, then displaced fractures with a single fragment, then comminuted fractures with multiple fragments, and finally fractures that occur with elbow dislocation (the most severe form). Therefore the sequence non-displaced, displaced, comminuted, and associated with elbow dislocation is the correct order. This classification helps guide treatment decisions, from immobilization for Type I to fixation or replacement for the more complex or dislocated injuries.

Radial head fractures are classified by the Mason system, which sorts injuries by displacement and complexity. The progression starts with non-displaced (or minimally displaced) fractures, then displaced fractures with a single fragment, then comminuted fractures with multiple fragments, and finally fractures that occur with elbow dislocation (the most severe form). Therefore the sequence non-displaced, displaced, comminuted, and associated with elbow dislocation is the correct order. This classification helps guide treatment decisions, from immobilization for Type I to fixation or replacement for the more complex or dislocated injuries.