Radiocapitellar Line

Other Names

Radiograph and corresponding illustration of a normal radiocapitellar line

Abnormal radiocapitellar line with subluxed radial head

Normal radiocapitellar line seen from the PA view

• Radiocapitellar Line

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Introduction

• Used to assess alignment on elbow radiographs
• Particularly useful in the pediatric setting

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Measurement

• Draw a straight line down the neck of the radius which should intersect with the capitellum
  • Be sure to follow the neck (and not the shaft) due to slight angulation

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Interpretation

• Normal: Line intersects the capitellum
• Abnormal: the line does not intersect the capitellum, implying a radial head dislocation
  • Note: a 'rounded' radial head can suggest a congenital radial head dislocation

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Pathology

• Radial Head Dislocation
• Monteggia Fracture

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Evidence

• Needs to be updated

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See Also

• Elbow Pain Main
• Radiology Main

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