[Monteggia fractures in children can be overlooked].

Monteggia fractures in children are rare fractures presenting with anterior radial head dislocation and ulnar bowing in typical cases. In adulthood, pain, instability, deformity, loss of power and range of motion in the elbow joint are experienced. Early treatment is crucial, since the prognosis is depending on the time delay from injury to treatment. Full forearm X-rays including the elbow joint in two perpendicular projections are highly recommended in order to achieve an exact diagnosis without delay.