Accidentally, had a hit in my fractured arm. What to do?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have a plate in my right ulna from a previous injury. I have had one plate snap on me and had to have it replaced last month. It was a hard heal. As there was a 3 mm gap between both sides of the ulna, they decided to put a synthetic bone graft around it. Tonight, I accidentally hit my arm in the area of the break and plate. It is now a few hours later, and I am in some pain. When I feel around the plate and trace the edge, where the door hit my arm, it feels squishy, and there is a bit of a bump if I feel around the plate or bone. I am unsure if it is just bruised or if I should get it checked.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

There is no doubt that x-rays of the affected forearm should be done in both AP (anteroposterior) and lateral views to rule out any bony crack, especially at the plate ends as these are potential areas of stress. Until that time, my advice will be to start with ice packs and anti-inflammatory medication for pain relief. Further management will depend on whether there is bony or soft tissue injury.

Thank you.