Monteggia fracture-dislocation

Full Definition

A Monteggia fracture-dislocation is a complex injury involving a fracture of the ulnar shaft (or proximal third) accompanied by dislocation of the radial head. Named after Giovanni Battista Monteggia, this injury is classified by the Bado classification system based on the direction of radial head dislocation. These injuries are often missed on initial evaluation and can result in significant functional impairment if not properly treated. Successful management requires anatomic reduction of both components of the injury.

Usage

Usage note: Capitalize 'Monteggia' as it derives from a proper name; distinguish from Galeazzi fracture.

In Context

• "CT imaging confirmed a type I Monteggia fracture-dislocation with anterior dislocation of the radial head." — Radiology report
• "Open reduction and internal fixation was performed to address the Monteggia fracture-dislocation." — Operative summary