Sail Sign of the Elbow

Other Names

Illustration of elbow joint effusion

Anterior fat pad sign seen in a patient with a subtle radial head racture

• Sail Sign
• Sail sign of the elbow
• Anterior fat pad sign

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Introduction

• Describes elevation of the anterior fat pad to create a silhouette similar to the sail on a boat
• See on the lateral radiograph of the elbow
• It suggests the presence of an effusion and an occult fracture

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Interpretation

• In the setting of acute trauma, occult fracture should be suspected

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Pathology

Adult

• Radial Head Fracture

Pediatrics

• Supracondylar Fracture
• Radial Neck Fracture
• Proximal Ulna Fracture
• Lateral Condyle Fracture of the Elbow

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Evidence

• Needs to be updated

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See Also

• Elbow Pain Main
• Radiology Main

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