Olecranon Fracture-dislocations Research Articles

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.

Locking plate fixation in comminuted coronoid fractures with partial loss of the articular cartilage – Of basal-1 type according to the O'Driscoll classification –

BackgroundWe have attempted to restore the arc of motion by considering trochlear-coronoid articulation as a complete circle during fixation of the coronoid, even for comminuted coronoid fractures with partial loss of articular cartilage (CCFPLAC), using various kinds of locking plates. Herein, we report the radiological and clinical outcomes after fixation of the basal-1 type of CCFPLAC (O'Driscoll classification) using our method. MethodsThirty-one patients diagnosed with CCFPLAC were admitted between January 2012 and December 2020. Sixteen of these patients met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were enrolled in this study. Surgically, the lost area (defect of articular cartilage) was never compressed or minimized, but the original height and shape of the coronoid were preserved as is. Provisionally, a few K-wires were used to maintain the original shape and position of the CCFPLAC, and various kinds of locking plates/screws were used to fix the fragment anatomically and firmly. If needed, the plate was bent to ensure stable compression of the coronoid according to its size. In a few cases, locking plates were adjusted by cutting extra screw holes. ResultsAmong the 16 patients, the mean age was 46.2 years, and the male:female ratio was 10:6. The mean follow-up period was 3.63 years. 8, 6, and 2 patients were designated as group 1 (isolated CCFPLAC), 2 [CCFPLAC in type 4 (terrible triad) injury), and 3 (CCFPLAC in type 5 posterior olecranon fracture-dislocations), respectively. Complete union was achieved after a mean of 8.94 weeks. The mean flexion-extension and pronation-supination arcs were 127.19 ± 4.46° and 135.31.59 ± 8.06°, respectively, which were significantly different from those on the contralateral (normal) side (p < 0.001); however, the arcs were within the functional ranges for ordinary daily living. Additionally, the functional status was satisfactory in all patients. However, Mayo Elbow Performance Score and the degree of arthritis were statistically poor in group 2. ConclusionsCCFPLAC of the basal-1 type (O'Driscoll classification) can be treated satisfactorily if already designed and widely distributed locking plates are properly manipulated to maintain the original geometry of the coronoid according to the individual joint characteristics. Level of evidenceLevel IV, Retrospective case series

Transolecranon Fracture-Dislocations

Transolecranon fracture-dislocations are a rare type of olecranon fracture-dislocation of the elbow involving an olecranon fracture with an anterior radiocapitellar dislocation. In these fractures, the relationship between the proximal radioulnar joint is maintained. Principles of surgical fixation involve anatomic articular reduction of the olecranon, reduction of the radiocapitellar joint, and restoring elbow stability to allow early range of motion. With proper recognition of this fracture pattern and application of fixation principles, good outcomes can be expected for the majority of patients after this high-energy injury.

Recognition of the pattern of complex fractures of the elbow using 3D-printed models.

This study aimed to answer the following questions: do 3D-printed models lead to a more accurate recognition of the pattern of complex fractures of the elbow?; do 3D-printed models lead to a more reliable recognition of the pattern of these injuries?; and do junior surgeons benefit more from 3D-printed models than senior surgeons? A total of 15 orthopaedic trauma surgeons (seven juniors, eight seniors) evaluated 20 complex elbow fractures for their overall pattern (i.e. varus posterior medial rotational injury, terrible triad injury, radial head fracture with posterolateral dislocation, anterior (trans-)olecranon fracture-dislocation, posterior (trans-)olecranon fracture-dislocation) and their specific characteristics. First, fractures were assessed based on radiographs and 2D and 3D CT scans; and in a subsequent round, one month later, with additional 3D-printed models. Diagnostic accuracy (acc) and inter-surgeon reliability (κ) were determined for each assessment. Accuracy significantly improved with 3D-printed models for the whole group on pattern recognition (acc2D/3D = 0.62 vs acc3Dprint= 0.69; Δacc = 0.07 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.00 to 0.14); p = 0.025). A significant improvement was also seen in reliability for pattern recognition with the additional 3D-printed models (κ2D/3D = 0.41 (moderate) vs κ3Dprint = 0.59 (moderate); Δκ = 0.18 (95% CI 0.14 to 0.22); p ≤ 0.001). Accuracy was comparable between junior and senior surgeons with the 3D-printed model (accjunior = 0.70 vs accsenior = 0.68; Δacc = -0.02 (95% CI -0.17 to 0.13); p = 0.904). Reliability was also comparable between junior and senior surgeons without the 3D-printed model (κjunior = 0.39 (fair) vs κsenior = 0.43 (moderate); Δκ = 0.03 (95% CI -0.03 to 0.10); p = 0.318). However, junior surgeons showed greater improvement regarding reliability than seniors with 3D-printed models (κjunior = 0.65 (substantial) vs κsenior = 0.54 (moderate); Δκ = 0.11 (95% CI 0.04 to 0.18); p = 0.002). The use of 3D-printed models significantly improved the accuracy and reliability of recognizing the pattern of complex fractures of the elbow. However, the current long printing time and non-reusable materials could limit the usefulness of 3D-printed models in clinical practice. They could be suitable as a reusable tool for teaching residents.Cite this article: Bone Joint J2023;105-B(1):56-63.

Treatment strategies to prevent complications of posterior olecranon fracture dislocation based on poor grade case and review of literature

Treatment strategies to prevent complications of posterior olecranon fracture dislocation based on poor grade case and review of literature

Olecranon Fracture Dislocation With Disrupted Ulnohumeral and Proximal Radioulnar Joint. Necessity for Lesser Sigmoid Notch Fractures to be Included in the Current Classification Systems

Olecranon Fracture Dislocation With Disrupted Ulnohumeral and Proximal Radioulnar Joint. Necessity for Lesser Sigmoid Notch Fractures to be Included in the Current Classification Systems

Clinical and radiological evaluation of surgical management in olecranon fracture-dislocations.

The treatment of olecranon fracture-dislocations (OFDs) remains challenging. OFDs are often misdiagnosed as Monteggia lesions, and the real frequency is actually higher. However, studies on OFDs are limited. This study aimed to report on the surgical management of OFDs and to highlight the importance of three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) evaluation in the treatment of OFDs. The study participants included 18 patients (11 men, 7 women, mean age 44years (range 24-78) with OFDs. Each patient's medical records, radiographs, and 3D CT scans were reviewed for demographics, injury details, operative findings, and information about radiological and functional outcomes. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the direction of the dislocation: the posterior dislocation group (group 1, 7 patients) and anterior dislocation group (group 2, 11 patients). The clinical evaluation was performed according to Broberg-Morrey and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons-Elbow (ASES-E) scoring systems. The mean follow-up period was 39months (range 25-62months). The Broberg-Morrey results were excellent in 4, good in 9, fair in 3, and poor in 2 patients. The mean ASES-E score was 84.83 (range 48-100) points. There were signs of ulna-humeral arthrosis in 5 elbows. Arthrosis was graded as grade 1, grade 2, and grade 3 in 3, 1, and 1 elbows, respectively. Partial sensory recovery was observed in one patient with postoperative ulnar neuropathy at the last follow-up visit. OFDs are complex injuries of the proximal ulna and may involve the radial head, coronoid process, and lateral collateral ligament. The effective treatment of OFDs begins with the proper identification of the injury with 3D CT. A secure fixation including the coronoid process is mandatory for the elbow joint stability. Insufficient restoration of the trochlear notch may lead to problems with loss of motion and arthrosis. Although an application of a pre-contoured locking anatomical olecranon plate can simplify the fixation procedure in most cases, the surgeons' equipment should also include radial head implant, coronoid plates, headless screws, small cannulated screw system, suture anchors, fluoroscopy, and articulated external fixator.

Classifications in Brief: Regan-Morrey Classification of Coronoid Fractures.

Classifications in Brief: Regan-Morrey Classification of Coronoid Fractures.

The Surgical Outcomes of Olecranon Fracture Dislocation of the Elbow

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the surgical outcomes of olecranon fracture dislocation in accordance with the direction of the dislocation. Materials and Methods: From December 2006 to February 2016, the surgical outcome in patients who had been followed-up for a minimum of 6 mont...

Injury Pattern and Clinical Outcome of Olecranon Fracture-Dislocation

Injury Pattern and Clinical Outcome of Olecranon Fracture-Dislocation

Fracture line distribution of olecranon fractures.

The association between specific olecranon fracture characteristics (e.g., displacement, fragmentation, subluxation) and fracture line distribution might help surgeons predict intra-articular fracture location based on fracture characteristics that can be determined on radiographs. We hypothesized that fracture mapping techniques would reveal different fracture patterns for minimally displaced fractures, displaced fractures, and fracture-dislocations of the olecranon. A consecutive series of 78 patients with olecranon fractures were evaluated using initial radiographs and computed tomography scans and characterized according to the Mayo classification. Fracture lines were identified based on reduced three-dimensional computed tomography reconstructions and graphically superimposed onto a standard template to create two-dimensional fracture maps. The fracture maps were then converted into fracture heat maps. Based on fracture and heat maps, fracture line location and patterns were determined. Six (7.7%) patients had a non- or minimally displaced fracture, 22 (28%) a displaced fracture, and 50 (64%) a fracture-dislocation of the olecranon. There were 27 (54%) anterior and 23 (46%) posterior olecranon fracture-dislocations. Fracture lines of non- or minimally displaced fractures and posterior fracture-dislocations enter and exit the trochlear notch at the base of the coronoid, while fracture lines of displaced fractures and anterior fracture-dislocations were spread more broadly over the depths of the trochlear notch. Based on fracture characteristics depicted on radiographs, one can anticipate the amount of the olecranon involved (how close is the fracture line to the coronoid) and the orientation of the fracture line. Computer tomography could be reserved for when more specific knowledge of the fracture line might affect treatment. III.

Involvement of the Lesser Sigmoid Notch in Elbow Fracture Dislocations

Purpose: To address the primary null hypothesis that there is no difference in the articular surface area of the lesser sigmoid notch involved among Mayo classes. Second, we analyzed the fracture line location and the pattern of lesser sigmoid notch articular surface involvement among Mayo classes. Methods: Using quantitative 3-dimentional computed tomography, we reconstructed and analyzed fractures involving the lesser sigmoid notch articular surface in 52 patients. Furthermore, we assessed the surface area involved in the fracture, the number of fracture fragments, and the location and direction of the fracture lines. Coronoid fractures were classified according to Mayo types. Results: There was no significant difference between Mayo types 1 and 2 in any characteristic of the involvement of the lesser sigmoid notch articular surface, whereas Mayo type 3 was significantly different from both Mayo types 1 and 2 in the area involved in the fracture (42% in Mayo type III vs 9% in Mayo types I and II), the number of articular fragments (&gt;3 fragments in type III vs 2 fragments in types I and II), and the direction of fracture line (both horizontal and vertical lines in type III vs only horizontal line in types I and II). Conclusion: Mayo type III results in a more complex fracture, which might need to be addressed directly or indirectly during open reduction internal fixation of the olecranon fracture dislocations because changes in the geometry of lesser sigmoid notch may affect the radioulnar joint if it remains incongruent.

Involvement of the lesser sigmoid notch in elbow fracture dislocations

This study addressed the primary null hypothesis that there is no difference in the articular surface area of the lesser sigmoid notch involved among Mayo classes. Secondarily, we analyzed the fracture line location and the pattern of lesser sigmoid notch articular surface involvement among Mayo classes. Using quantitative 3-dimensional computed tomography, we reconstructed and analyzed fractures involving the lesser sigmoid notch articular surface in 52 patients. Further, we assessed the surface area involved in the fracture, the number of fracture fragments, and the location and direction of the fracture lines. Coronoid fractures were classified according to Mayo types. There was no significant difference between Mayo types 1 and 2 in any characteristic of the involvement of the lesser sigmoid notch articular surface, whereas Mayo type 3 was significantly different from both Mayo types 1 and 2 in the area involved in the fracture (42% in Mayo type 3 vs. 9% in Mayo types 1 and 2), the number of articular fragments (>3 fragments in type 3 vs. 2 fragments in types 1 and 2), and the direction of fracture line (both horizontal and vertical lines in type 3 vs. only horizontal line in types 1 and 2). Mayo type III results in a more complex fracture, which might need to be addressed directly or indirectly during open reduction with internal fixation of olecranon fracture dislocations because changes in the geometry of lesser sigmoid notch may affect the radioulnar joint if it remains incongruent.

Primary Hinged External Fixation of Terrible Triad Injuries and Olecranon Fracture-Dislocations of the Elbow.

This study aimed to introduce a new treatment that apples primary hinged external fixation for complex fracture-dislocations of the elbow in 12 cases. We retrospectively assessed the functional outcomes of eight patients with terrible triad injuries and three patients with an olecranon fracture-dislocation of the elbow, who were treated at our hospital using a primary hinged external fixator between June 2012 and December 2014. Ten patients underwent repair or replacement of the radial head, while three underwent repair of the olecranon. In principle, they were treated without reconstruction of the coronoid fracture and collateral ligament injury. The patients were evaluated for a mean follow-up period of 16 months after the initial surgery. Early mobilization was encouraged while the hinged external fixator was in place. At the follow-up, the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 93 points; the results were "excellent" in six cases and "good" in five. No patients had recurrent elbow instability. Only one patient needed an additional procedure after the initial operation. These results suggested that primary hinged external fixation without repair of the ligament and soft tissue is an effective minimally invasive surgery for the management of terrible triad injuries and olecranon fracture-dislocations of the elbow.

Quantitative 3-dimensional computed tomography analysis of olecranon fractures

Olecranon fractures have variable size of the proximal fragment, patterns of fragmentation, and subluxation of the ulnohumeral joint that might be better understood and categorized on the basis of quantitative 3-dimensional computed tomography analysis. Mayo type I fractures are undisplaced, Mayo type II are displaced and stable, and Mayo type III are displaced and unstable. The last is categorized into anterior and posterior dislocations. The purpose of this study was to further clarify fracture morphology between Mayo type I, II, and III fractures. Three-dimensional models were created for a consecutive series of 78 patients with olecranon fractures that were evaluated with computed tomography. We determined the total number of fracture fragments, the volume and articular surface area of each fracture fragment, and the degree of displacement of the most proximal olecranon fracture fragment. Displaced olecranon fractures were more comminuted than nondisplaced fractures (P = .02). Displaced fractures without ulnohumeral subluxation were smallest in terms of both volume (P < .001) and articular surface involvement (P < .001) of the most proximal olecranon fracture fragment. There was no difference in average displacement of the proximal fragment between displaced fractures with and without ulnohumeral subluxation (P = .74). Anterior olecranon fracture-dislocations created more displaced (P = .04) and smaller proximal fragments than posterior fracture-dislocations (P = .005), with comparable fragmentation on average (P = .60). The ability to quantify volume, articular surface area, displacement, and fragmentation using quantitative 3-dimensional computed tomography should be considered when increased knowledge of fracture morphology and fracture patterns might be useful.

Coronoid Fractures.

Fractures of the coronoid process of the ulna are usually part of a more complex injury. The type of coronoid fracture corresponds with a specific pattern of injury with known pitfalls and recommended treatments. Tip fractures usually correspond with dislocation of the elbow and fracture of the radial head (the so-called terrible triad of the elbow because it is prone to redislocation, subluxation, and arthrosis) and are best repaired with a suture passed through drill holes along with repair or replacement of the fractured radial head and reattachment of the lateral collateral ligament to the lateral epicondyle. Anteromedial fractures are usually part of a subluxation injury and are best addressed with a medial buttress plate and reattachment of the lateral collateral ligament. Large basilar coronoid fractures are usually part of an olecranon fracture-dislocation and are usually repaired with 1 or 2 plates and screws. Tenuous fixation is protected with temporary external fixation or cross-pinning of the joint because healing of the coronoid with concentric elbow alignment is critical. Therapeutic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Quantitative 3-Dimensional Computed Tomography Measurements of Coronoid Fractures

Using quantitative 3-dimensional computed tomography (Q3DCT) modeling, we tested the null hypothesis that there was no difference in fracture fragment volume, articular surface involvement, and number of fracture fragments between coronoid fracture types and patterns of traumatic elbow instability. We studied 82 patients with a computed tomography scan of a coronoid fracture using Q3DCT modeling. Fracture fragments were identified and fragment volume and articular surface involvement were measured within fracture types and injury patterns. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to evaluate the Q3DCT data of the coronoid fractures. Fractures of the coronoid tip (n= 45) were less fragmented and had the smallest fragment volume and articular surface area involvement compared with anteromedial facet fractures (n= 20) and base fractures (n= 17). Anteromedial facet and base fractures were more fragmented than tip fractures, and base fractures had the largest fragment volume and articular surface area involvement compared with tip and anteromedial facet fractures. We found similar differences between fracture types described by Regan and Morrey. Furthermore, fractures associated with terrible triad fracture dislocation (n= 42) had the smallest fragment volume, and fractures associated with olecranon fracture dislocations (n= 17) had the largest fragment volume and articular surface area involvement compared with the other injury patterns. Analyzing fractures of the coronoid using Q3DCT modeling demonstrated that fracture fragment characteristics differ significantly between fracture types and injury patterns. Detailed knowledge of fracture characteristics and their association with specific patterns of traumatic elbow instability may assist decision making and preoperative planning. Quantitative 3DCT modeling can provide a more detailed understanding of fracture morphology, which might guide decision making and implant development.

Distribution of Coronoid Fracture Lines by Specific Patterns of Traumatic Elbow Instability

To determine if specific coronoid fractures relate to specific overall traumatic elbow instability injury patterns and to depict any relationship on fracture maps and heat maps. We collected 110 computed tomography (CT) studies from patients with coronoid fractures. Fracture types and pattern of injury were characterized based on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs, 2- and 3-dimensional CT scans, and intraoperative findings as described in operative reports. Using quantitative 3-dimensional CT techniques we were able to reconstruct the coronoid and reduce fracture fragments. Based on these reconstructions, fracture lines were identified and graphically superimposed onto a standard template in order to create 2-dimensional fracture maps. To further emphasize the fracture maps, the initial diagrams were converted into fracture heat maps following arbitrary units of measure. The Fisher exact test was used to evaluate the association between coronoid fracture types and elbow fracture-dislocation patterns. Forty-seven coronoid fractures were associated with a terrible triad fracture dislocation, 30 with a varus posteromedial rotational injury, 1 with a anterior olecranon fracture dislocation, 22 with a posterior olecranon fracture dislocation, and 7 with a posterior Monteggia injury associated with terrible triad fracture dislocation of the elbow. The association between coronoid fracture types and elbow fracture-dislocation patterns, as shown on 2-dimensional fracture and heat maps, was strongly significant. Our fracture maps and heat maps support the observation that specific patterns of traumatic elbow instability have correspondingly specific coronoid fracture patterns. Knowledge of these patterns is useful for planning management because it directs exposure and fixation and helps identify associated ligament injuries and fractures that might benefit from treatment. Two-dimensional fracture and heat mapping techniques may help surgeons to predict the distribution of coronoid fracture lines associated with specific injury patterns.

Injury Patterns and Outcomes of Open Fractures of the Proximal Ulna Do Not Differ From Closed Fractures

The incidence and injury patterns of open fractures of the proximal ulna are poorly elucidated and little evidence exists to guide management. The purpose of this study was to compare the (1) bony injury patterns; (2) range of motion (ROM) and frequency of union; and (3) postoperative complications between open and closed fractures of the proximal ulna. Seventy-nine consecutive open fractures of the proximal ulna were identified. After excluding fracture-dislocations, penetrating injuries, and pediatric injuries, 60 were compared in a retrospective case-control study with an age- and sex-matched group of 91 closed fractures to compare the bony injury patterns based on radiographic review. In a subset of 39 open and 39 closed fractures with sufficient followup, chart and radiographic review was performed by someone other than the operating surgeon to compare differences in final ROM, union, and postoperative complication rates at a minimum followup of 3 months (mean, 22 and 15 months; range, 3-86 months and 3-51 months for open and closed fractures, respectively). A total of 12% of the fractures were open (79 of 671) at the three study centers, and the majority of fractures were intraarticular (45 of 60 [75%]) with Gustilo-Anderson Type I and II wounds (54 of 60 [90%]). Overall, open fractures of the proximal ulna overall did not have more complex bony injury patterns, but there were more anterior olecranon fracture-dislocations among the open fracture group (nine of 60 [15%] versus two of 91 [2%]; p = 0.004) and more posterior olecranon fracture-dislocations in the closed fracture group (31 of 91 [34%] versus seven of 60 [12%]; p = 0.002). Final ROM was not different in both groups and all fractures healed. There was no difference in wound infection rate but a higher secondary procedure rate among open fractures of the proximal ulna (39% versus 23%, p = 0.014). In contrast to open fractures of the distal humerus, open fractures of the proximal ulna present with mild soft tissue injuries and do not have more complex bony injury patterns than closed fractures. Our findings suggest that open fractures of the proximal ulna are the result of tension failure of the skin secondary to the limited soft tissue envelope around the proximal ulna. Open fractures of the proximal ulna should be regarded as relatively mild injuries that are not different in severity and prognosis compared with closed fractures. Level III, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Modular prosthesis replacement for comminuted and unreconstructable radial head fractures

Objective To analyze the results of modular prosthesis replacement for treatment of comminuted and unreconstructable radial head fractures associated with other elbow fractures and sof-tissue injuries. Methods From November 2009 to March 2011,22 patients with comminuted radial head fracture of Mason type Ⅲ were treated with Acumed modular prosthesis replacement. Repair of collateral ligaments and associated elbow fractures was carried out simultaneously.They were 16 men and 6 women,with an average age of 41.5 years (from 21 to 62 years).The left side was involved in 9 cases and the right in 13.One patient was associated with posterior olecranon fracture-dislocation of Monteggia type Ⅱ,13 with elbow terrible triad,one with elbow dislocation but without coronoid process fracture,3 with Essex-Lopresti injury and 4 with medial collateral ligament injury.The coronoid process fracture was fixated with Kirschner wire and the proximal ulnar fracture with plate and screw.Hinged external fixators were used in 2 cases of elbow terrible triad.Patients were evaluated by the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Results The follow-ups averaged 12.95 months ( range,6 to 22 months ).One patient had disturbed elbow flexion of less than 90° due to prosthesis overstuffing,one patient had elbow instability in spite of full range of motion gained due to prosthesis understuffing,and one patient had elbow ankylosis at elbow flexion of 70° with a heterotopic ossification bridge.The results in the other 19 patients were good to excellent. Their average flexion was 131.5°±4.4° (from 130° to 140°),average extension 5.4°±6.3° (from 0 to 20°),average range of extension-flexion motion 126.1 ° ± 7.7° ( from 120° to 140°),average pronation 81.6° ± 6.4° ( from 70°to 90°),average supination 85.6° ± 3.1° (from 80° to 90°),and average range of rotation 167.2° ± 8.2°(from 150° to 180°).Their mean postoperative MEPS score was 94.2 ± 5.1 points (from 85 to 100points). Conclusions The Acumed modular radial head prosthesis offers 200 standard combinations (10left and 10 right stem options with 5 diameters and 4 collar height options) to accommodate different sizes and provide proper restoration of the overall length of the radius,replicates natural radial head geometry,provides improved articulation with the capitellum,prevents loosening and maintains the proper relationship between the radial neck and the plane of the head.Consequently,it is a fine treatment option for radial head fractures of Mason type Ⅲ complicated with additional elbow fractures and soft-tissue injuries,but it can also lead to complications. Key words: Elbow joint; Fractures; Surgical procedures, operative; Arthroplasty, replacement