The radial notch is a small, smooth, oval hollow on the outer side of the coronoid process of the ulna. The head of the radius turns against it to form the proximal radioulnar joint, which allows the forearm to rotate into pronation and supination. The annular ligament attaches to its front and back edges and wraps around the radial head.
| Articulations | |
|---|---|
| Landmarks |
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| Ossification | Part of the proximal ulna, formed from the primary shaft centre. |
The radial notch is disrupted in Monteggia fracture-dislocations, where an ulnar fracture is combined with dislocation of the radial head, and missing the radial head dislocation leads to poor outcomes. It is an important reference in reconstructing the annular ligament and in assessing radial head fractures and elbow instability. In children, pulled elbow (nursemaid's elbow) occurs when the radial head slips partly out of the annular ligament that is anchored to the notch.
A fracture of the ulnar shaft with dislocation of the radial head from the radial notch, which must be recognised and reduced to prevent lasting elbow dysfunction.
Partial slipping of the radial head out of the annular ligament in a young child after a pull on the hand, causing sudden refusal to use the arm.
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