Comparative study of internal fixation of adult radial neck fracture with different fixation methods

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the clinical outcomes of different internal fixation methods to treat adult radial neck fractures. Methods Twenty-one cases of Mason Ⅱ and Ⅲ radial neck fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Mini-plate and Kirschner-wire fixation was used in 16 cases and 5 cases, respectively. Elbow functions were evaluated and compared between the two groups. Results All patients were follow-up for 16 to 42 months (average 33 months). Nonunion occurred in one case with K-wire fixation, which was treated with mini-plate fixation 8 months after the first surgery. All other 20 cases achieved bone union. According to Broberg and Morrey score system, the mini-plate group had excellent results in 11 cases, good results in 4 cases and fair results in 1 case, with an overall excellent and good rate of 93.8%. The K-wire group had excellent results in 1 case, good results in 2 cases, fair results in 1 case and poor results in 1 case, with an overall excellent and good rate of 60.0%. Conclusion Open reduction and internal fixation is the most appropriate way to treat adult Mason Ⅱ and Ⅲ radial neck fractures. Mini-plate fixation is significantly better than K-wire fixation. Key words: Radius fractures; Fracture fixation,internal; Treatment outcome