First reported capitellum fracture in a rare combination of Galeazzi fracture with elbow dislocation: A case report and literature review

Introduction: Galeazzi fractures, defined as a radial shaft fracture with distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) dislocation, are uncommon injuries in adults. Their combination with ipsilateral elbow dislocation is rare, with only a limited number of cases reported. We present the first documented case of a Galeazzi fracture with elbow dislocation combined with a capitellum fracture, alongside additional associated injuries. Case Report: A 35-year-old male sustained a high energy trauma following a fell from the second floor (approximately 8 meters). Clinical examination revealed pain and deformity of the left elbow and wrist without neurovascular compromise. Imaging demonstrated a Galeazzi fracture, elbow dislocation, scaphoid fracture, and, following reduction, a capitellum fracture with an associated radial head fracture. Associated injuries included a T7 vertebral fracture and a grade II splenic laceration. The patient remained hemodynamically stable; therefore there was no indication for fluid or blood resuscitation. Initial management consisted of closed reduction of the elbow dislocation, followed by staged surgical intervention. The radial fracture was treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) stabilization. A subsequent procedure addressed fixation of the scaphoid and capitellum fractures, along with repair of the lateral collateral ligament. At one-year follow-up, the patient demonstrated full elbow range of motion (ROM) without functional impairment. A residual limitation in forearm supination persisted and necessitation subsequent removal of the radial plate after one year. Conclusion: This case describes a previously unreported combination of capitellum fracture, Galeazzi fracture, and elbow dislocation. Such injury patterns are typically associated with high-energy mechanisms, and awareness of concomitant injuries (vertebral fracture and spleen laceration in our case) is essential to avoid missed diagnoses. Despite the inherent complexity, staged surgical management can yield satisfactory functional outcomes.