Radial Head Resection and Corium Interposition Arthroplasty in Skeletally Immature Patients With Isolated Posttraumatic Radial Head Arthrosis.

Abstract

Radiocapitellar arthrosis represents a serious sequela of pediatric elbow injuries. Although persistent pain and disability are not uncommon in such cases, treatment remains controversial. The present study aimed to review the clinical outcomes after a new surgical treatment with partial radial head resection and corium interposition arthroplasty. To date, 3 adolescent cases underwent the surgical procedure and postoperative care. Thorough clinical and radiographic follow-up was performed. The mean age at the time of surgery was 14.4 years (range, 13 to 16 y) and mean duration of follow-up was 19 months (range, 12 to 29 mo). The postoperative range of motion was maintained in all cases. The outcome was rated as excellent in all 3 patients for the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (mean, 3; range, 0 to 6.7) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (mean, 92; range, 80 to 100). The mean Timmermann score; however, was still rated as fair despite marked improvements (mean, 153; range, 145 to 165). No complications such as elbow stiffness, osteophytes formation, radial head overgrowth, or proximal radius migration occurred. In pediatric isolated posttraumatic radiocapitellar arthrosis, we believe that radial head resection and corium interposition arthroplasty is an effective salvage procedure to alleviate symptoms and maintain elbow function with good to excellent clinical outcomes and no proximal migration of the radius.