What is the most common elbow fracture resulting from a fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH)?

• A. Olecranon fracture
• B. Radial head fracture
• C. Coronoid fracture
• D. Humeral head fracture

Answer: (B)

The most common elbow fracture resulting from a fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH) is a radial head fracture. When an individual falls and extends their arm to catch themselves, the impact can transmit force to the elbow joint, particularly affecting the radial head, which is a common site of injury. This type of fracture often occurs when the force of the fall is transmitted through the forearm, leading to either a direct fracture of the radial head or an indirect fracture due to the stress placed on the joint.

Olecranon fractures, while also related to falls, typically occur in scenarios where there is a direct blow to the elbow or from severe hyperextension rather than from the outstretched hand mechanism. Coronoid fractures, although they can accompany radial head fractures, are less common on their own in the FOOSH injury context. Humeral head fractures involve the upper arm and are less directly associated with the mechanism of a FOOSH injury as they relate more to shoulder trauma.

Thus, the radial head is the primary site of injury in the context of FOOSH injuries, making it the most common type of elbow fracture resulting from this specific mechanism.