A Monteggia fracture is a fracture of the proximal ulna with dislocation of the radial head, classified by Bado according to the direction of radial head dislocation. In adults the ulna is fixed anatomically, which usually reduces the radial head, while children often do well with closed reduction.
- fracture of proximal ulna with dislocation of the proximal radius (Monteggia – Milan, 1814)
Classification
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| I | anterior dislocation of radial head |
| II | posterior or posterolateral dislocation of the radial head |
| III | lateral or anterolateral dislocation of the radial head |
| IV | anterior dislocation of the radial head with fracture of both radius & ulna at the diaphysis |
Treatment
- ORIF in adults
- CR/POP in children
- aim to reduce ulna – this reduces the proximal joint
Reviewed by Professor Phong Tran, Head of Orthopaedic Surgery, Western Health. Last updated 10 October 2026.