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Radial Fossa of Humerus

fossa radialis humeri

The radial fossa is a small, shallow depression on the anterior surface of the distal humerus just above the capitellum, accommodating the anterior rim of the radial head during full elbow flexion. It lies lateral to and slightly smaller than the coronoid fossa. During full flexion, the radial head rim fits into the radial fossa simultaneously as the coronoid fits into the coronoid fossa.

Region: Upper Arm

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The radial fossa is relevant in the context of radial head fractures and total elbow arthroplasty. Radial head prostheses must match the native head geometry to avoid overstuffing, which produces elbow stiffness and radial fossa impingement. The anterior fat pad of the elbow occupies this fossa and the adjacent coronoid fossa; its displacement on lateral radiograph produces the anterior sail sign indicating intra-articular effusion from fracture. Radial fossa osteophytes in elbow osteoarthritis impinge on the radial head during flexion.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Radial Head Prosthesis Overstuffing

A radial head replacement that is too long or large causes the radial head to press against the capitellum and protrude into the radial fossa during flexion, producing elbow stiffness, capitellar erosion, and lateral compartment pain requiring revision to a correctly sized component.