Value of preoperative computer simulation in the treatment for congenital radial head anterior dislocation in children

Abstract

Objective To explore the application value of preoperative computer simulation in the treatment for congenital anterior dislocation of radial head in children. Methods There were 12 cases of congenital anterior dislocation of radial head, including 8 boys and 4 girls. The average age was 8 (4-13) years. Three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) examination of the affected elbow was performed preoperatively and the relevant data was imported into the MIMICS software. Reduction efficacy was observed by simulated reduction of proximal ulnar rotation osteotomy. During operation, radial head was treated by open reduction and proximal ulnar rotation osteotomy. Plate and screws with or without Kirschner wire were used for fixing the osteotomy site. Results All radial heads could be reduced satisfactorily using computer for simulating proximal ulnar rotation osteotomy preoperatively. The procedures were plate plus screw fixation (n=3) and plate screw plus Kirschner wire fixation (n=9). During an average follow-up period of 33 months, there was no postoperative redislocation or subluxation of radial head. Conclusions Preoperative computer simulation can observe the effect of reducing radial head after proximal ulnar rotation osteotomy. And proximal ulnar rotation osteotomy is an effective treatment for congenital anterior dislocation of radial head in children. Key words: Computer simulation; children; Head of radius; Congenital; Dislocation