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Pediatrics & Neonatology

Nursemaid's Elbow (Radial Head Subluxation), Left Elbow, Initial Encounter

ICD-10 Code
S53.032A_1

Subluxation of the radial head in the left elbow, often caused by a sudden pull on the arm in young children.

Clinical Presentation & Protocol

Patient Usually Complains Of

Patient presents with acute onset of left arm pain and refusal to use the left extremity following a sudden longitudinal traction event (pulling) on the forearm. No history of direct trauma, fall, or swelling. Patient is currently holding the left arm in a pronated and slightly flexed position.

Clinical Examination Findings

Left upper extremity examination: No visible deformity, ecchymosis, or edema noted. Distal neurovascular status intact (capillary refill <2 seconds, radial pulse palpable). Tenderness localized to the radial head region. Patient exhibits significant guarding and refuses supination or flexion of the left elbow. No bony tenderness or crepitus noted in the humerus or wrist.

Treatment Protocol

Radial head reduction performed via hyperpronation technique. A palpable/audible click was noted during the maneuver. Post-reduction assessment: Patient regained full range of motion and began using the left arm spontaneously within 10 minutes. No further imaging required as clinical presentation is classic.

Detailed clinical guide coming soon.