Question

Which of the following fractures may not be radiologically apparent on the first day of injury, necessitating repeat x-rays on a follow-up visit? (A) Nondisplaced radial head fracture. (B) Clavicular fracture. (C) Calcaneus fracture. (D) Scapula fracture.

   Which of the following fractures may not be radiologically apparent on the first day of injury, necessitating repeat x-rays on a follow-up visit?
(A) Nondisplaced radial head fracture.
(B) Clavicular fracture.
(C) Calcaneus fracture.
(D) Scapula fracture.

Emergency Medicine Examination & Board Review

Susan Promes 3rd Edition

Chapter 14, Problem 3

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- Nondisplaced radial head fracture: This type of fracture may not be visible on the first day of injury because it may not cause significant displacement of the bone. - Clavicular fracture: This type of fracture is often visible on the first day of injury due to Show more…

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Which of the following fractures may not be radiologically apparent on the first day of injury, necessitating repeat x-rays on a follow-up visit? (A) Nondisplaced radial head fracture. (B) Clavicular fracture. (C) Calcaneus fracture. (D) Scapula fracture.

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Key Concepts

Occult Fractures

Occult fractures are fractures that do not present with clear radiographic evidence immediately after the trauma. The fracture lines may be so subtle or minimally displaced that they are easily missed on initial radiographs, making further imaging essential when clinical suspicion remains high.

Limitations of Early Radiographic Imaging

Early radiographic imaging can be limited in its ability to detect certain fractures that do not initially show significant bone displacement or obvious break lines. This is why repeat imaging after some time, allowing for the development of callus formation or other changes, is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

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