Advantages of Modular Radial Head Prosthesis Use in Highly Comminuted Fractures

Abstract

This article aims to evaluate the results and outcomes of patients with highly comminuted radial head fractures, Mason III / IV type, treated surgically by arthroplasty with a cemented modular radial head prosthesis. A fracture of the radial head with a high degree of comminution left untreated can lead to complex functional impairment in which both elbow flexion and extension and also the pronation / supination of the forearm are limited, all of which will affect their daily activities. Management of radial head fractures should be based on both injury-specific factors and patient factors. Injury-specific factors include fracture size, displacement, rotation block, and associated injuries. Patient factors include age, associated injuries, bone quality, and activity level. Six patients underwent surgery for highly comminuted radial head fractures. All participants were followed up to 36 months postsurgery. A final review was carried out at 12-36 months after surgery when clinical, functional and imagistic assessment was performed. Functional results were very good; stability and ROM data obtained were within normal limits. Surgical treatment using modular radial head prosthesis offered excellent results, the elbow mobility being in the normal range and patients requiring a short period of recovery to achieve these parameters.