Fixation Of Radial Head Fractures Research Articles

Head-to-neck screw fixation and radial head arthroplasty result in similar postoperative outcomes for low-comminuted radial head fractures with neck involvement

Background Fixation of radial head fractures with neck involvement presents challenges. It remains unclear whether the outcomes of head-to-neck screw fixation are similar to those of arthroplasty in this scenario. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate the clinical outcomes of these two methods for treating such fractures. Methods Demographic data, fracture type, number of fragments, and concomitant injuries were recorded. Range of motion, Visual Analogue Scale for pain, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand at three-year follow-up, complications, and reintervention were compared. Results A total of 14 patients underwent fixation with head-to-neck screws, and 15 an arthroplasty. Baseline characteristics between groups were similar ( P > .05). Satisfactory range of motion (arc > 100°) was achieved in nine patients (64%) in the fixation group, and eight patients (53%) in the arthroplasty group ( P = .55). The mean Visual Analogue Scale, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand were 1.2 ± 1.2, 91.7 ± 10.7, and 9.1 ± 1, respectively, ( P = .651, P = .651, and P = .155). Three patients (21%) in the fixation group underwent a reintervention and three (20%) in the arthroplasty group ( P = .639). Discussion Head-to-neck screw fixation and radial head arthroplasty result in similar postoperative outcomes for low-comminuted radial head fractures with neck involvement.

Usefulness of multiple bioabsorbable Mg screws/K‑wires for comminuted radial head fractures.

We hypothesized that multiple absorbable screws/K-wires would be effective for native head preservation in comminuted radial head fracture fixation (com-RHFs). Seventeen patients who met the inclusion criteria between 2018 and 2020 were included. Radiologic findings indicating proper union and clinical outcomes such as the range of elbow motion, visual analog scale score, and Mayo Elbow Performance Score were assessed prospectively after surgery and at least threeyears of follow-up. The mean follow-up period was 4.6years. Eleven, one, three, and two patients presented with isolated com-RHFs, type 2 (accompanied injury of medial collateral ligament), type 4 ("terrible triad") fractures, and type 5 posterior olecranon fracture-dislocations, respectively. Union was achieved after a mean of nineweeks postoperatively. The head and shaft angles did not differ significantly from the contralateral normal values (p = 0.778 and 0.872, coronal and sagittal, respectively). At the final follow-up, the mean flexion-extension/pronation-supination arcs were 126.47 ± 4.92°/135.59 ± 10.13°, and thus were significantly different from those on the contralateral side (p < 0.001, both), however the arcs were functional ranges for ordinary daily life. Also, functional status was satisfactory in all individuals. The arthritis grade and extent of heterotrophic ossification were satisfactory in all cases, and there were no serious complications requiring revision surgery. Absorbable screw/K-wire fixation for com-RHFs is an option before radial head arthroplasty associated with a low complication rate and no need for revision.

Is the 'safe zone' identified in preoperative computed tomography helpful for choosing optimal implant for fixation of radial head fracture?

The purpose of this study is to assess the clinical significance of the radiologic safe zone based on computed tomography and to compare the outcomes of three different implants for fixation of isolated radial head fractures. We retrospectively reviewed 367 patients who underwent internal fixation for isolated radial head fractures. We newly defined two subtypes of Mason type II fractures associated with the radiographic safe zone (IIA, two-part fracture allowing for safe fixation of plate; IIB, two-part fracture not allowing for safe fixation). 170 patients (CCS group, n = 82; HCS group, n = 31; plate group, n = 57) were investigated with no significant differences in demographics. The range of pronation and supination at 1 month postoperatively (P = 0.04 and P = 0.04) and the range of supination at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P = 0.03 and P = 0.03) were significantly smaller in the plate group. In Mason type IIB fractures, the average MEPS was higher in the CCS and HSC groups than in the plate group (P = 0.01 and P = 0.02). And the average DASH score was lower in the CCS and HCS groups (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01). Evaluation of the radiologic safe zone is potentially helpful in selecting better surgical fixation option. For type III fractures, 2.3-mm cortical screws would be a better option than Acutrak screws. Plates would not be suitable for type IIB radial head fractures.

Biomechanical comparison of three fixation strategies for radial head fractures: a biomechanical study.

Second-generation headless compression screws (HCSs) are commonly used for the fixation of small bones and articular fractures. However, there is a lack of biomechanical data regarding the application of such screws to radial head fractures. This study evaluated the mechanical properties of the fixation of radial head fractures using asingle oblique HCS compared with those obtained using a standard locking radial head plate (LRHP) construct and a double cortical screw (DCS) construct. Radial synbone models were used for biomechanical tests of HCS, LRHP, and DCS constructs. All specimens were first cyclically loaded and then loaded to failure. The stiffness for the LRHP group was significantly higher than that for the other two groups, and that for the HCS group was significantly higher than that for the DCS group. The LRHP group had the greatest strength, followed by the HCS group and then the DCS group. The HCS construct demonstrated greater fixation strength than that of the commonly used cortical screws, although the plate group was the most stable. The present study revealed the feasibility of using a single oblique HCS, which has the advantages of being buried, requiring limited wound exposure, and having relatively easy operation, for treating simple radial head fractures.

A modified trans-anconeus approach to facilitate fixation of a posterior radial head fracture: a cadaveric feasibility study.

Fixation of radial head fracture with minimally invasive posterior approach remains a significant challenge. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of trans-anconeus posterior elbow approach and to observe lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) in extended elbows. This cadaveric study was performed in twenty upper limbs of fresh fixed adult male cadavers. An oblique incision was made in the middle segment of anconeus until the lateral ligament complex and the joint capsule had been revealed. A deep dissection was explored to observe the anatomical relationship of the LUCL to the anconeus. Measurements of the LUCL were recorded while the elbow was fully extended. The mean distance between the edge of the radial head and the proximal insertion of the LUCL was 13.3 mm (11.5-16.2 mm); the mean distance between the edge of the radial head and the distal insertion of the LUCL was 20.9 mm (19.2-23.4 mm); the distance between the edge of the radial head and the distal edge of the annular ligament was 11.2 mm (8.22-11.7 mm). By estimate correlation of the previous measurements, the direct and accessible way to expose the posterolateral articular capsule of the elbow joint was through a window in medial 2/3 of the middle segment of anconeus muscle. These trans-anconeus approach is useful. It provides good visualization, facilitates applying the implants, and lessens the risk of radial nerve injury. Awareness of the anatomy is mandatory to avoid injury of LUCL.

Screw placement in arthroscopically assisted osteosynthesis of radial head fractures using a reference k-wire in the radiocapitellar joint: a cadaveric study

PurposeThe optimal screw placement in arthroscopically assisted fixation of radial head fractures is still an issue and no guiding methods have been evaluated in the recent literature. The study hypothesis was that using a “reference k-wire” percutaneously inserted in and parallel to the radiocapitellar joint would enable to achieve a trajectory more parallel to the radial head articular surface as compared to a free-hand k-wire placement.MethodsArthroscopically assisted placement of a k-wire in the radial head was performed in seven fresh-frozen human cadaver specimens by three surgeons. Three different techniques were evaluated: freehand drilling (technique A), placement using a “reference” k-wire in the radiocapitellar joint as a reference without (technique B), and with the AO parallel k-wire guide (technique C). Radiographs from all procedures were obtained and the inclination angle “α” between the k-wire and the articular surface of the radial head was measured and compared among the techniques.ResultsAngles of 84 radiographs were obtained and showed a mean α angle of 30.1° ± 13° for technique A, 5.7° ± 4.5° for technique B, and 5.4° ± 3.7° for technique C. The angle α was significantly higher with technique A as compared to B (p < 0.0001) and C (p < 0.0001). There was no difference between methods B and C (n.s.). No difference was observed among the surgeons for all three methods (p = 0.66).ConclusionWith the use of an additional “reference” k-wire placed in the radiocapitellar joint, the guiding k-wire for screw drilling can be placed almost parallel to the radial head joint line with limited variability and a good reproducibility during arthroscopically assisted radial head fracture fixation.Clinical relevanceThe here-presented method of an additional, percutaneous introduced “reference” k-wire is easily applicable and helpful to achieve parallel screw placement during arthroscopically assisted radial head fracture fixation.Level of evidenceIV, biomechanical cadaver study

Avoiding articular breakthrough in screw fixation of radial head fractures.

BackgroundThe radial head is anatomically complex, making fracture fixation challenging because of the difficult visualization of the articular surface. As a result, screw penetration into the radiocapitellar joint can often occur. To facilitate safe placement of screws tangential to the joint surface, we define an approximate and reliable distance from the articular rim of the radial head that can minimize the risk of articular breach.MethodsA Kirschner wire for cannulated drilling was placed tangential to the articular surface in 15 cadaveric proximal radii. The distance from the wire to the articular rim was measured 3 times. After insertion of a 3.5-mm compression screw, the radial head was divided in the coronal plane, bisecting the screw track, to visualize the cross section of the screw's position. Headless compression screws of 3.5 mm were placed the distance from the most proximal edge of the screw track to the radial head's articular surface was measured 3 times.ResultsThe average distance from the articular rim to the distal surface of the Kirschner wire was 5.1 mm. The average distance from the articular rim to the proximal edge of the cavity was 1.7 mm. The screw placement was subchondral and extra-articular in all cases.ConclusionWhen fixing Mason type 2 articular radial head fractures with 3.5-mm headless compression screws placed tangential to the articular surface, maintaining a screw entry point about 5 mm distal to the articular surface of the radial head will minimize the possibility of articular screw breach. This position also places the screw into subchondral bone, providing the best bone quality for mechanical support.

30-Day outcomes analysis of surgical management of radial head fractures comparing radial head arthroplasty to open reduction internal fixation

IntroductionRadial head arthroplasty and open reduction internal fixation are two commonly utilized treatment options for radial head fractures. The purpose of this study is to assess the incidence of and risk factors for short-term complications following radial head arthroplasty and open reduction internal fixation of radial head fractures. MethodsThe American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was queried to identify patients that underwent radial head arthroplasty or open reduction internal fixation for radial head fractures between January 1st, 2015 and December 31st, 2017. The incidence of various 30-day complications, including unplanned readmission, reoperation, non-home discharge, mortality, surgical/medical complications, and extended length-of-stay were compared between the two propensity matched groups. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for various short-term complications. ResultsAfter propensity matching, a total of 435 patients were included in our analysis. 250 patients underwent radial head arthroplasty, and 185 patients underwent open reduction internal fixation. Arthroplasty treated patients had a significantly longer mean total operative time (p = .031) and length-of-stay (p = .003). No significant 30-day complications differences were found for unplanned readmission, reoperation, non-home discharge, mortality, surgical complications or medical complications. Independent risk factors for any complications of both procedures included a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and American Society of Anesthesiologists class III. Significant risk factors for length-of-stay greater than two days included a history of bleeding disorder and American Society of Anesthesiologists class III. ConclusionOur study revealed there were no significant differences in 30-day perioperative surgical or medical complications from either surgical treatment of radial head fractures; however, radial head arthroplasty treated patients were met with a significantly longer length-of-stay and longer duration of operating time. We also identified risk factors that were independently associated with higher rates of complications regardless of treatment type.

Results of operative management of radial head fractures by internal fixation and excision and conservative management: A study of 60 cases

Radial head fractures are the most frequent fracture type reported around the elbow. Fractures have been documented to occur in isolation or with other associated osseous and soft tissue injuries, with awareness for the potential patterns of injury essential in determining the appropriate management to attain restoration of elbow function. Radial head fractures are seen in 33% of elbow fractures. It may involve the radial head, radial neck or both. Treatment depends on the type of fracture, amount of displacement, comminution and associated injuries. Previously radial head excision was a popular treatment, now it is being replaced by open reduction and internal fixation or radial head replacement. The assessment of these common fractures and treatment have evolved with better understanding of the anatomy and biomechanics of radial head and the development of evidence based guidelines. Aim and Objective: To study the clinical and functional outcome of radial head fractures managed conservatively and by mean of internal fixation and by mean of radial head excision. Material and Methods: For prospective study Sample will be taken from the patients treated in P.D.U. Medical College and Hospital having radial head fracture on basis of plain radiograph and CT scan, classified according to Mason classification and treatment plan will be decided accordingly. Results will be assessed on basis of functional classification system at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Results: In Our study of 60 cases, 30 patients having a Mason type 1 variety radial head fractures treated conservatively by mean of plaster application and 26 patients of Mason type 2 radial head fracture treated by mean of open reduction and internal fixation and 4 patient of Mason type 3 radial head fracture treated by mean of excision. Out of all the patients treated by different modality 20% of patients present with stiffness of elbow joint and 2% of patients presented with infection. Conclusion: From our objective, functional assessment perspective open reduction internal fixation of radial head fracture when technically possible appears to be provide function superior to excision. Furthermore open reduction and internal fixation provides results similar to those obtained in less severe injuries where non-operative management is possible. Such improvement results from preservation of anatomy with maintenance of the normal load bearing characteristic of elbow joint.

A comparative study of type 2 radial head fractures treated by conservative versus operative management

Aims and Objectives 1. To evaluate the clinical and functional outcome in Type 2 Radial head fracture treated with conservative management or operative management. 2. To study the complications, if any with radial head fracture fixation and conservative treatment. Materials and Methods: 50 patients of Type 2 radial head fractures were treated either none operatively or by open reduction and internal fixation. 25 patients underwent conservative treatment and 25 patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation. Patients were divided into study groups by randomisation. Patients were followed up for a period of 6 months following their injury, and overall results were determined by using the Quick Dash scoring system. Institutional ethics committee approval was obtained before proceeding with this study. Results: In our study, no statistically significant differences were found in the study groups in terms of age, sex, side affected or mechanism of injury. Quick Dash scores were not found to vary significantly in either groups at 6 months. One patient in our study had a palsy of the posterior interosseous nerve following surgery. Conclusion: The authors cannot recommend open reduction and internal fixation for type 2 radial head fractures, as conservative management in this study has shown to have equally good results without the possibility of complications of surgery.

Results of radial head fractures treated with surgical fixation

Purpose: Our study aims to report the functional outcomes of the patients with radial head fractures treated using surgical technique and benefits of surgery over conservative management. Materials and Methods: 20 Patients were operated at a mean age of 45.3 years and patients were reviewed at a follow up on 3 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months. Functional outcome assessed using DASH score, Ballottement test for DRUJ instability, Neurological assessment using test for Posterior Interosseous Nerve Palsy. Supination and pronation measured clinically and compared to normal side. Results: The mean preoperative DASH score was 80.5 which reduced to 25 at final review Supination and pronation possible to maximum range at final review. No patient presented with ballottement test positive and PIN involvement. Conclusion: Early fixation of radial head fractures using Kocher’s approach to dissect and fix radial head fractures with Minimal chances for injury to Posterior interosseous nerve, early mobilization gives good functional outcomes, there is no DRUJ instability, there is no limitation of durability as we fix the radial head instead of replacing.

Finite Element Analysis of Insertion Angle of Absorbable Screws for the Fixation of Radial Head Fractures.

ObjectiveTo investigate the biomechanical effects of different insertion angles of absorbable screws for the fixation of radial head fractures.MethodsThe finite element models used to simulate the fractures were created based on CT scans. Two absorbable screws were used to fix and maintain the stability of the fracture, and the angles between the screws were set to 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°. A downward force of 100 N was applied at the stress point, which was coupled with the surface, and the distal radius was limited to six degrees of freedom. The direction and location of the applied force were the same in each model. The values of the von Mises stress and peak displacements were calculated.ResultsUnder the applied load and different screw angles, the maximum von Mises stress in the screws was concentrated on the surface contacting the fracture surfaces. The maximum von Mises equivalent stress in the screw decreased when the angle increased from 0° (19.54 MPa) to 45° (13.11 MPa) and increased when the angle further increased to 90° (24.63 MPa). The peak displacement decreased as the angle increased from 0° (0.19 mm) to 45° (0.15 mm) and increased when the angle further increased to 90° (0.25 mm).ConclusionThe computational stress distribution showed that fixation with absorbable screws is safe for patients. Moreover, the minimum von Mises stress and displacements were generated when the angle between the screws was 45°; hence, this setting should be recommended for Mason type II radial fractures.

What Factors Are Associated with Reoperation After Operative Treatment of Terrible Triad Injuries?

Terrible triad injuries of the elbow, consisting of posterior ulnohumeral joint dislocation with associated fractures of the radial head and coronoid process, are challenging injuries due to the difficulty in restoring stability to the joint surgically while also attempting to allow early ROM to prevent stiffness. Furthermore, complications are both debilitating and relatively common, frequently requiring reoperation. (1) What patient-, injury-, or surgery-related factors are associated with reoperation after surgical treatment of terrible triad injuries of the elbow? (2) What are the most common causes of reoperation after these injuries? Between January 2000 and June 2017, we identified 114 patients who had surgery for terrible triad injuries at two tertiary-care referral centers. Of those, 40% (46 of 114) were lost to follow-up before 1 year, and an additional 5% (6 of 114) were excluded because they underwent the index surgery at an outside institution (n = 4) or underwent closed reduction with or without percutaneous pinning (n = 2). That left 62 patients for analysis in this retrospective study with a minimum of 1-year follow-up (median 22 months; range 12 to 65) or who met the endpoint of reoperation before 1 year. During the study period, indications for surgical treatment of terrible triad injuries of the elbow included joint incongruity or instability precluding early ROM. In our study cohort, 45% (28 of 62) underwent reoperation. Indications for reoperation after surgical treatment included stiffness that interfered with activities of daily life, symptomatic prominent hardware, ulnar neuropathy, instability of the elbow joint at rest or with range of motion, and infection. Patient-related (such as age, sex, race), injury-related (for example, ipsilateral extremity fracture, open fracture), and surgery-related factors (for instance, time to surgery, radial head treatment) as well as outcomes were collected by the treating surgeon at the time of follow-up and ascertained using chart review. The primary outcome measure was reoperation after surgical treatment of a terrible triad injury of the elbow. Bivariate analysis was used to assess whether explanatory variables were associated with reoperation after surgical treatment of terrible triad injuries of the elbow. Of the patient-, injury-, and surgery-related factors that were analyzed, only radial head treatment was associated with an increased reoperation risk (p = 0.03). No other variable met criteria for inclusion in our multivariable logistic regression model (p < 0.10), and therefore, a multivariable logistic regression model was not performed. The most common indication for reoperation was stiffness (21% [13 of 62 patients]), followed by symptomatic hardware (18% [11 of 62 patients]), nerve symptoms (ulnar neuropathy 16% [10 of 62 patients] and incisional neuroma 2% [1 of 62 patients]), instability (6% [4 of 62 patients]), and wound problems (infection 2% [1 of 62 patients]). The reoperation risk after surgical treatment of terrible triad injuries of the elbow is high. No patient- or injury-related factors were associated with the reoperation risk. Based on our finding, we recommend fixation of radial head fractures in these injuries when feasible and compatible with early postoperative motion, and we suggest the use of radial head excision or arthroplasty as a secondary options. Level III, therapeutic study.

Patient and Surgeon Factors Associated With Prosthetic Replacement Rather Than With Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of a Radial Head Fracture.

Background: The decision between radial head arthroplasty and open reduction internal fixation in the context of a terrible triad elbow fracture-dislocation is debated. This study investigated both surgeon and patient factors associated with surgeons' recommendations to use arthroplasty. Methods: One hundred fifty-two surgeon members of the Science of Variation Group participated. Surgeons were asked to complete an online survey that included surgeon demographics and 16 patient scenarios. The patient scenarios were randomized using 2 patient variables and 2 anatomical variables. Multilevel logistic mixed regression analysis was performed to identify surgeon and patient variables associated with recommendations for radial head arthroplasty. Results: We found that radial head replacement was recommended in 38% of the scenarios. Scenarios with older patients, with fractures of the whole head, and those involving 3 fracture fragments were independently associated with radial head replacement. Conclusion: We found that most surgeons recommended radial head fracture fixation rather than arthroplasty. Surgeons were more likely to recommend fixation for younger patients with partial articular fractures or with fractures with 3 or fewer fracture fragments. It seems that surgeons are uneasy about using a prosthesis in a young active patient.

A biomechanical study of headless compression screws versus a locking plate in radial head fracture fixation

Fixation of a 3-part radial head fracture with cannulated compression screws will show equivalent stiffness to a locking plate under axial load. Debate exists regarding the management of Mason type III fractures, with many believing that open reduction and internal fixation provides advantages over other options. By virtue of their subarticular placement, screw fixation is less likely to cause impingement compared with plate fixation, which can result in loss of rotation and requirement for hardware removal. Insufficient fixation stability can lead to nonunions, necrosis of the radial head, pain, and instability. We tested the mechanical stability of fixation of simulated radial head fractures using headless compression screws compared with standard plate construct. Standardized test constructs were created with repeatable osteotomy cuts and hardware placement on each Synbone model (Synbone AG, Malans, Switzerland). We presectioned 22 proximal radius Synbone models to simulate a 3-part radial head fracture. The models were fixed using a radial head locking plate or headless compression screws in a tripod construct. The constructs were potted into a compression test jig using 2-part epoxy resin. Compression testing was performed using a 30-kN Instron Universal machine (Instron, Norwood, MA, USA). The compression tool was spherical, representing the surface of the capitellum. There was no significant difference between the stiffness of the Synbone constructs under axial load. There was no significant difference between fixation stiffness of a 3-part radial head fracture with headless compression screws in a tripod structure vs. a locking plate in Synbone. Further study is required to allow clinical application.

A 360° axial contact arc for fixation of radial head fractures can be reached combining anteromedial, anterolateral and midlateral arthroscopic portals

Aim The aim of this study was to compare the effective working space in the axial plane of three different elbow arthroscopy portals to fix radial head (Rh) fractures. Background Arthroscopic fixation of Rh fractures is an alternative to open reduction and internal fixation, which presents the advantage of minimal surgical trauma. Methods A fresh-frozen cadaver specimen was obtained and prepared to mimic an arthroscopic setting. Standard anterolateral (AL), anteromedial (AM), and midlateral (ML) portals were established and circular reference system was marked on the Rh using the radial styloid as an anatomic reference for 0°. Ten independent examiners were then asked to move the forearm from maximal supination to maximal pronation and indicate with a K-wire the range in which they would feel confident with placing a cannulated screw, which would pass through the centre of the articular plane of the Rh (axial contact arc). This process was repeated from all three portals by each examiner. Every examiner remained blinded to other examiners’ measurements. Results The average axial contact arc that could be contacted from the AM portal measured 150 ± 14.14°, or 41.67% of the Rh circumference, while the one from the AL portal measured 257 ± 29.46°, or 71.39% of the Rh circumference, and that from the ML portal 212.5 ± 32.60°, or 59.03% of the Rh circumference. Considering all three portals, the whole Rh circumference could be contacted. The AM portal showed the smallest coefficient of variation (9.43%) as compared to the AL (11.46%), and the ML (15.34%) portals. Conclusions With an appropriate use of the standard AL, AM, and ML portals, the whole Rh circumference can be effectively contacted for fixation of Rh fractures. The AL portal shows a superiority in axial contact arc as compared to the AM and ML portals; the working space of the AM portal presents the smallest variability among different observers.

A combination of an anteromedial, anterolateral and midlateral portals is sufficient for 360° exposure of the radial head for arthroscopic fracture fixation.

Arthroscopic fixation of radial head fractures is an alternative to open reduction and internal fixation; the latter, however, presents the advantage of minimal soft-tissue damage. The exposure of the radial head for adequate screw placement can be technically challenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inter-observer agreement on the effective contact arc in the axial plane of the radial head of three different elbow arthroscopy portals. A fresh-frozen cadaver specimen was obtained and prepared in an arthroscopic setting. Standard anterolateral (AL), anteromedial (AM), and midlateral (ML) portals were established and a circular reference system was marked on the radial head. Ten orthopaedic surgeons were then asked to move the forearm from maximal supination to maximal pronation and indicate with a Kirschner wire from each portal the extension in which they would feel confident in placing a cannulated screw passing through the centre of the articular plane of the radial head (axial contact arc). The Shapiro-Wilk normality test was used to evaluate the normal distribution of the sample. A coefficient of variation (CoV) was calculated to determine agreement among observers. The average arc of axial contact arc that could be contacted from the AM portal measured 150 ± 14.1°, or 41.7% of the radial head circumference; the one from the AL portal measured 257 ± 29.5°, or 71.4% of the radial head circumference; that from the ML portal measured 212.5 ± 32.6°, or 59.0% of the radial head circumference. Considering all three portals, the whole radial head circumference could be contacted. The AM portal showed the smallest CoV (9.4%) as compared to the AL (11.5%), and the ML (15.3%) portals. With an appropriate use of the standard AL, AM, and ML portals, the whole radial head circumference can be effectively exposed for adequate fixation of radial head fractures. The contact arc of the AM portal presents the smallest variability among different observers and the AL portal shows a superiority in axial contact arc. This information is important for pre-operative planning, and helps to define the limits of arthroscopic radial head fracture fixation.

Outcomes of Fixation of Radial Head Fractures with Kirschner Wire (K-Wire) in Adult Patients with Terrible Triad of Elbow Dislocations

Background: Elbow dislocation is one of the most prevalent dislocations among adults, following shoulder dislocation. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of Kirschner wire (K-wire) on fixation of comminuted radial head fracture when radial head prosthesis is inaccessible in terrible triad of elbow (TTE) dislocation.Methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 21 adult patients with TTE dislocation, who were scheduled for fixation of radial head using K-wire, were enrolled according to the inclusion criteria. Variables, such as supination, pronation, range of flexion-extension motion, forearm rotation, and Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) index, were measured, and the patients were followed-up for 1 postoperative year.Results: After surgery, the mean forearm rotation and elbow joint flexion-extension range of motion were 121.42 ± 29.71 and 115.23 ± 32.34 in patients with TTE dislocation, respectively. Regarding the MEPS results, the mean MEPS score was above 70, and the majority of patients showed good performance in the follow-up.Conclusions: Considering the limitations and side effects of prosthesis in TTE dislocation, K-wire can be used as an effective approach for fixing comminuted radial head fractures, such as TTE dislocation.

Prospective study of surgical fixation of radial head fractures using cannulated headless compression screws for simple and complex radial head fractures.

Fixing the two-part Mason II radial head fracture using screws is becoming a popular practice. However, the screw fixation efficacy for three-part Mason III and IV fractures is controversial. The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of using a uniform technique of headless compression screw fixation in simple, isolated Mason II and complex three-part Mason III and IV radial head fractures in terms of functional outcome, treatment efficiency and assessment of complications with the procedure. A prospective evaluation were performed on 31 adult patients with closed, non-pathological Mason II, III and IV radial head fractures sustained due to trauma and who underwent fixation using either two or three cannulated headless compression screws of 2.0 to 2.5 mm, and all patients were followed up for 2 years after the injury. They were divided into simple Mason II fracture group and complex three-part Mason III-IV fracture group. Operation time, time to discharge and radiological union were used as parameters for assessment of clinical outcome, while Mayo Elbow Performance Score, range of motion and complications were used to assess the functional outcomes. Twelve cases of two-part simple fracture group and 18 cases of complex fracture group were identified. The mean age of 39 years is comparable between the two groups. Both groups had comparable days to union, mean hospital stay and operation time. In the simple fracture group, the mean Mayo Elbow Score was 97 (80-100), which is better than the complex fracture group score of 89 (75-100), p = 0.035. Both groups had no statistical difference in complication rates. All fractures united in our series. The mean range of motion for the simple fracture group was significant, with 133° ± 17.0° for flexion-extension arc, 85° ± 5° in pronation and supination as compared to the complex fracture group with 120° ± 20° flexion-extension arc, 69° ± 10° in pronation and 70° ± 8° in supination, p = 0.068. Overall clinical and functional outcomes of this technique are satisfactory in both simple and complex fracture groups, with simple Mason II fracture group doing better than the complex three-part Mason III and IV fractures in terms of Mayo Elbow Score and range of motion. Screw fixation has the advantage of less periosteal stripping and less impingement compared to other fixation methods and also allows for flexible fixation in constrained areas. Headless compression screw fixation can be considered as a method of fracture fixation for both simple and complex three-part radial head fractures.

Arthroscopic Radial Head Implant Removal and Resection

Displaced radial head fractures are treated with open reduction and internal fixation using implants. Failure of fixation may occur in the presence of comminution and in multifragmentary fractures; open surgical approaches are necessary for removal of the implants and radial head resection. Arthroscopic radial head resection has been described as a minimally invasive and effective treatment for failed radial head fracture fixation; however, periarticular adhesions and prominent implants add to the complexity and technical difficulty of the procedure. The described technique uses 3 portals for adhesiolysis, implant removal, and radial head resection. Resection is performed in stages; smaller-diameter instruments are used to gain and improve access, and larger resectors are used subsequently. Adequacy of resection is assessed arthroscopically and with biplanar imaging. The arthroscopic technique avoids the need for an open surgical approach and prevents subsequent morbidity. In addition, the rehabilitation time is shorter and patient satisfaction is high.