Fraktura ng Ulo ng Radius Impormasyon

Ang pahinang ito ay isinalin ng makina at hindi pa nasusuri ng isang doktor. Ang bersyong Ingles ang siyang opisyal.

Ano ang nararamdaman mo

Maaaring mararamdaman mo ang sakit sa labas ng iyong siko. Karaniwang lumala ang sakit kapag sinusubukan mong ikutin ang iyong forehand, tulad ng pagbukas ng pinto o paggamit ng screwdriver. Ang mga simpleng gawain, tulad ng pag-abot sa likod para i-fasten ang bra o pagtupi ng damit, ay maaaring maging napakahirap. Maaaring mahirapan kang mag-angat ng mga bagay o dalhin ang mga bilihin dahil sa pakiramdam ng kawalan ng katatagan ng kasukasuan.

Maaaring mas malala ang iyong mga sintomas sa gabi o sa unang bahagi ng umaga. Maraming pasyente ang nagsasabi na hindi makatulog sa nasugatang gilid dahil sa sakit. Karaniwang bumabalik ang sakit pagkatapos mong gamitin ang iyong braso para sa mga araw-araw na gawain. Habang ang ilang fracture ay matatag at gumagaling nang maayos nang walang operasyon, ang iba naman ay nagdudulot ng malaking kahirapan na nagbabawal sa iyong galaw.

Kung ang iyong sugat ay higit pa sa simpleng buto, maaaring mararamdaman mo ang pakiramdam ng kaluwagan o kawalan ng katatagan sa iyong siko. Maaari itong mangyari kung ang iba pang estruktura sa paligid ng kasukasuan ay nasira rin. Titingnan ng iyong doktor ang mga lugar na ito nang mabuti upang matiyak na tama ang pagkakaayos. Kung walang tamang pag-aalaga, maaaring magdulot ang kawalan ng katatagan na ito ng masamang resulta sa pangmatagalan. Karamihan sa mga tao na may minor na fracture ay nakakakita na ang pahinga at banayad na paggalaw ay tumutulong upang mabawasan ang sakit sa paglipas ng panahon.

Ano ang nangyayari talaga

Kapag nabasag ang itaas na bahagi ng iyong buto sa braso, madalas na nasasira ang mga malambot na tisyu na gumagana bilang gasket sa paligid ng iyong kasukasuan ng siko. Maaaring maputol ng sugatang ito ang mga ligamento na nag-iipon ng iyong kasukasuan, katulad ng isang naunat na goma na nawawalan ng lakas. Kung nabasag ang buto sa maraming piraso, nasa panganib ang katatagan ng buong iyong braso, at maaaring maging hindi matatag ang iba pang mga istruktura.

Tinitingnan ng iyong doktor nang maigi kung paano nakalinang ang kasukasuan upang matukoy kung maaari itong gumaling nang mag-isa o kailangan ng pagkumpuni. Kung nabasag ang buto sa tatlo o higit pang piraso, maaaring palitan ng iyong doktor ang basag na bahagi ng isang metal na implant. Gumagana ang pirasong metal na ito bilang bagong shock absorber upang panatilihing mabilis ang galaw ng iyong braso. Sa maraming kaso, maganda ang resulta sa mga pasyente na natanggap ang palitan, at ipinapakita ng mga resulta sa pangmatagalan na 96% ng mga pasyente ay may kasiyang-siyang functional na resulta.

Kahit gumaling nang maayos ang buto, maaaring mapansin mo ang ilang katigasan o pagbabago sa kasukasuan sa paglipas ng panahon. Madalas na ipinapakita ng mga X-ray ang arthritis na dulot ng pagkasira sa karamihan ng mga kaso pagkatapos ng maagang pag-alis ng basag na buto. Gayunpaman, kung kayang kumpunihin ng iyong doktor ang buto o maayos itong palitan, maaari mong muling makuha ang mahusay na pag-andar. Ang karamihan sa mga pasyente na may kumplikadong sugat ay nakakamit ng magandang resulta, bagaman may ilang mga taong maaaring manatiling hindi nasiyahan sa kanilang paggaling.

Mga maaari naming gawin para dito

Para sa maraming matatag na fracture, maaari kang magsimula sa sariling pag-aalaga (self-care) at pisikal na terapiya. Maaaring irekomenda ng iyong surgeon na pahingahin ang braso at gumamit ng sling sa loob ng maikling panahon. Layunin ng pisikal na terapiya na ibalik ang saklaw ng galaw at lakas ng iyong siko. Karamihan sa mga pasyente na may hiwalay at matatag na fracture ay nakakakita ng mahusay na resulta sa pamamagitan ng ganitong hindi-opera na paraan. Kahit ang mga fracture na may maliit na paglipat na 2 hanggang 3 mm ay madalas ay gumagaling nang maayos nang walang operasyon. Dapat mong bigyan ng patas na pagkakataon ang ganitong konserbatibong pamamahala bago isaalang-alang ang iba pang hakbang.

Kung mananatiling may sakit, maaaring talakayin ng iyong surgeon ang mga medikal na opsyon upang matulungan kang pamahalaan ang mga sintomas. Habang binabanggit ng ebidensya na ang mga injeksyon ng lokal na anesthetic pagkatapos ng joint aspiration ay hindi nag-aalok ng karagdagang benepisyo, maaaring gamitin ang ibang mga gamot para sa mga partikular na isyu tulad ng arthritis. Para sa ilang mga pasyente na may arthritis na dulot ng pagkasira pagkatapos ng fracture, maaaring magbigay ng ginhawa ang mga injeksyon ng cortisone o hyaluronic acid. Ang mga injeksyon na ito ay tumatarget sa pamamaga o naglulubid ng joint upang bawasan ang sakit. Nag-iiba ang epekto ng mga treatment na ito, ngunit madalas itong ginagamit kapag ang pangkalahatang function ay limitado ng hindi komportableng pakiramdam kaysa sa fracture mismo.

Isinasalang-alang ang operasyon kapag naabot na ng konserbatibong pag-aalaga ang hangganan nito o kapag sobrang sira ng buto upang ayusin. Maaaring irekomenda ng iyong surgeon ang pagpapalit ng sira na buto ng metal implant kung hindi ito ma-reconstruct. Opsyong ito ang madalas pinipili para sa mga komplikadong fracture na may higit sa tatlong fragment o kapag may pinsala rin sa mga ligamento. Sa mga kaso ng terrible triad injuries, maaaring pumili ang iyong surgeon na ayusin ang buto kung posibleng makagawa ng matatag na fixation. Layunin ng operasyon na ibalik ang katatagan at function kapag hindi sapat ang mga hindi-opera na paraan.

Kailan makipag-ugnayan sa doktor

Kumonsulta sa iyong doktor kung mayroon kang patuloy na sakit na hindi gumagaling kahit magpahinga, o kung nararamdaman mong mahina at hindi matatag ang iyong siko. Humingi ng pagsusuri ng espesyalista kung ang iyong siko ay nakakabit o biglang bumabagsak, o kung ang mga sintomas ay nakakaapekto sa iyong pagtulog o trabaho. Humingi ng tulong agad kung napansin mong biglang lumala ang mga sintomas. Mahalaga ang maagang diagnosis upang maiwasan ang mga komplikasyon tulad ng kawalan ng katatagan ng forearms. Karamihan sa mga minor na pinsala na nakikita sa mga scan ay hindi nagdudulot ng mga sintomas, ngunit kung patuloy ang iyong sakit, kailangan ng karagdagang pagsusuri upang matiyak na ang tamang mga istruktura ang gagamutin.


Evidence & references

Overview

  • Medium-term data suggest that patients with comminuted radial head fractures do well with radial head replacement [1].
  • Long-term patient-reported outcomes were excellent following the nonoperative management of isolated stable fractures of the radial head or neck [2].
  • No clinical benefit with ORIF could be found compared to nonoperative management of isolated partial articular radial head fractures with displacement of greater than 2 mm but less than 5 mm at short-term followup [4].
  • Radial head fractures treated by early resection arthroplasty offer satisfactory functional results in 96% of patients at long-term follow-up [5].
  • Radiographic degenerative changes are present in the great majority of cases following early resection arthroplasty for radial head fractures [5].
  • The complications of radial head fractures are characteristic to their classification [6].
  • At the time of short-term followup, arthroplasty with a metal radial head implant was found to be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with an unreconstructible radial head fracture [8].
  • Radial head implants offer a reliable treatment for complex Mason type III and IV fractures, with good functional and survival outcomes and a low incidence of complications [10].
  • Treatment of radial head fractures may have an independent effect on outcome in the context of terrible triad injuries [11].
  • The authors recommend reconstruction of comminuted radial head fractures in the context of a terrible triad injury, providing stable fixation can be achieved [11].
  • The clinical and radiographic outcomes of revision surgery of radial head prostheses are favorable [14].
  • Radial head treatment was associated with increased reoperation risk in terrible triad injuries [19].
  • No patient- or injury-related factors were associated with the reoperation risk in terrible triad injuries [19].
  • Radial head arthroplasty is a reliable procedure for complex radial head fractures not amenable to reconstruction [21].
  • Radial head arthroplasty is particularly indicated for complex radial head fractures when associated with unstable elbows or forearm injuries [21].
  • Radial head arthroplasty requires that concomitant injuries be addressed [21].
  • Fracture displacement of 2 to 3 mm is not necessarily an indication for surgical fixation in isolated fractures of the radial head [26].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

  • Isolated displaced type II partial articular radial head fractures are associated with lateral ulnar collateral ligament tears [9].
  • Concurrent injuries and specific complications related to treatment modalities must be assessed in comminuted radial head fractures rather than relying solely on general elbow function outcomes [20].
  • The coronoid opening angle is a radiographic technique used to assess bone loss in coronoid trauma and serves as an adjunct to 3-dimensional imaging for clinical decision making [27].
  • Understanding relevant anatomy and factors associated with elbow stability allows for the application of a systematic treatment algorithm in terrible triad injuries to ensure sufficient stability for early motion [29].
  • An anatomic model of the terrible triad of the elbow was created by exerting axial compression on an elbow in 15° flexion and maximal pronation at speeds of 100 and 10 mm/min [30].
  • Detailed knowledge of fracture characteristics and their association with specific patterns of traumatic elbow instability assists in decision making and preoperative planning [32].
  • Disruptions in any of the forearm structures may lead to forearm instability with consequences at the remaining structures [34].
  • Understanding patterns of traumatic elbow instability helps surgeons counsel and manage patients with these injuries [35].
  • The presence of nerve injury and intra-articular involvement predisposes floating elbow injuries to worse clinical outcomes [38].
  • Trans-olecranon fracture posterior dislocation is a rare injury with unique characteristics involving complex elbow instability [48].
  • Long-term outcomes with surgical management of complex elbow injuries are unknown [42].

Classification

  • Complications of radial head fractures are characteristic to their classification [6].
  • Radial head and neck fractures have distinct epidemiological characteristics [7].
  • Consideration for osteoporosis is recommended in a subset of patients with radial head and neck fractures [7].
  • Apparently isolated, stable partial fractures of the radial head are infrequently displaced [15].
  • Observers have moderate disagreement regarding the diagnosis of displacement in apparently isolated, stable partial fractures of the radial head [15].
  • Displacement of apparently isolated, stable partial fractures of the radial head is likely overdiagnosed [15].
  • Fracture maps demonstrate no association between fracture line distribution and location of displaced partial articular fractures of the radial head and overall specific patterns of traumatic elbow instability [18].
  • A common fracture mechanism involving the anterolateral part of the radial head occurs in most patients with displaced partial articular fractures [18].
  • The most common location of displaced articular fractures of part of the radial head (Mason type 2) is the anterolateral quadrant with the forearm in neutral rotation [28].
  • Recognition of the triad of triceps avulsion, radial head fracture, and medial collateral ligament rupture is key to appropriate treatment [25].
  • Treatment of radial head fractures may have an independent effect on outcome in terrible triad injuries of the elbow [11].
  • Reconstruction of comminuted radial head fractures is recommended in the context of a terrible triad injury, provided stable fixation can be achieved [11].
  • The authors created a comprehensive classification of complex fracture-dislocations of the elbow that appeared to be reproducible [45].
  • The comprehensive classification of complex fracture-dislocations of the elbow may represent a useful tool for the management of such difficult injuries [45].
  • Selected Mason III radial head fractures and fracture dislocations could be stabilized satisfactorily with internal fixation [50].
  • None of the radial head prostheses functioned as well as the native radial head [52].
  • Open reduction and internal fixation to restore radial head anatomy is preferable to replacement when possible [52].

Clinical Presentation

  • Patients with comminuted radial head fractures may achieve good medium-term outcomes with radial head replacement [1].
  • Long-term patient-reported outcomes are excellent following nonoperative management of isolated stable fractures of the radial head or neck [2].
  • Conservative management of isolated Mason type II radial head fractures yields favorable therapeutic outcomes with a low incidence of complications [3].
  • There is no clinical benefit with ORIF compared to nonoperative management for isolated partial articular radial head fractures with displacement greater than 2 mm but less than 5 mm at short-term follow-up [4].
  • Radial head fractures treated by early resection arthroplasty offer satisfactory functional results in 96% of patients at long-term follow-up [5].
  • Complications of radial head fractures are characteristic to their classification [6].
  • Radial head and neck fractures have distinct epidemiological characteristics, and consideration for osteoporosis is recommended in a subset of patients [7].
  • Arthroplasty with a metal radial head implant is a safe and effective treatment option for unreconstructible radial head fractures at short-term follow-up [8].
  • It is important to determine which structures need to be repaired in isolated displaced type II partial articular radial head fractures to avoid complications leading to elbow instability [9].
  • Treatment of radial head fractures may have an independent effect on outcome in terrible triad injuries, with a recommendation for reconstruction of comminuted fractures if stable fixation can be achieved [11].
  • Most injuries found with MRI in patients with radial head fractures are not symptomatic or of clinical importance in short-term follow-up [12].
  • A 69-year clinical and radiologic follow-up of a previously unknown radial head prosthesis has been reported [13].
  • The clinical and radiographic outcomes of revision surgery of radial head prostheses are favorable [14].
  • Displacement of apparently isolated, stable partial fractures of the radial head is likely overdiagnosed due to infrequent actual displacement and moderate disagreement among observers regarding diagnosis [15].
  • The outcome of patients undergoing treatment for terrible triad injuries is similar whether the radial head was excised or replaced [16].
  • Fracture maps demonstrate no association between fracture line distribution and location of displaced partial articular fractures of the radial head and overall specific patterns of traumatic elbow instability [18].
  • Radial head treatment is associated with increased reoperation risk in terrible triad injuries, leading to a recommendation for fixation when feasible [19].
  • Forearm instability results from traumatic disruption of the radial head, interosseous membrane, and triangular fibrocartilage complex [22].
  • Delayed recognition and treatment of forearm instability lead to poor outcomes, making timely diagnosis and appropriate initial intervention imperative [22].
  • Nonsurgical management of minimally displaced radial neck fractures produces excellent results in most pediatric patients [23].
  • Open reduction of proximal radius fractures in children has been associated with particularly poor outcomes [23].
  • Recognition of the triad of triceps avulsion, radial head fracture, and medial collateral ligament rupture is key to appropriate treatment [25].

Investigations

  • Radial head and neck fractures have distinct epidemiological characteristics, and consideration for osteoporosis in a subset of patients is recommended [7].
  • Most injuries found with MRI in patients with radial head fractures are not symptomatic or of clinical importance in short-term follow-up [12].
  • Elbow arthroscopy has a significant diagnostic value in radial head fractures when compared to standard radiological imaging and revealed concomitant injuries even in patients with ununeventful MRI/CT [39].
  • The coronoid opening angle can be of value alongside 3-dimensional imaging in evaluating elbow injuries and used as an adjunct in clinical decision making [27].
  • Because apparently isolated, stable partial fractures of the radial head are infrequently displaced and observers have moderate disagreement regarding the diagnosis of displacement, it is likely that displacement is overdiagnosed [15].
  • It is important to determine which structures need to be repaired to avoid complications that could lead to elbow instability in isolated displaced type II partial articular radial head fractures [9].
  • Fracture maps demonstrated no association between fracture line distribution and location of displaced partial articular fractures of the radial head and overall specific patterns of traumatic elbow instability, suggesting a common fracture mechanism that involves the anterolateral part of the radial head in most patients [18].
  • Quantitative analysis confirms that the most common location of displaced articular fractures of part of the radial head (Mason type 2) is the anterolateral quadrant with the forearm in neutral rotation [28].
  • The complications of radial head fractures are characteristic to their classification [6].
  • It emphasizes the importance of assessing for concurrent injuries and specific complications related to each treatment modality rather than solely relying on general elbow function outcomes in comminuted radial head fractures [20].

Treatment

  • Medium-term data suggest that patients with comminuted radial head fractures do well with radial head replacement [1].
  • Long-term patient-reported outcomes were excellent following the nonoperative management of isolated stable fractures of the radial head or neck [2].
  • Conservative management of isolated Mason II radial head fractures yields favorable therapeutic outcomes with a low incidence of complications [3].
  • No clinical benefit with ORIF could be found compared to nonoperative management of isolated partial articular radial head fractures with displacement of greater than 2 mm but less than 5 mm at short-term followup [4].
  • Radial head fractures treated by early resection arthroplasty offer satisfactory functional results in 96% of patients at long-term follow-up, in spite of the radiographic degenerative changes present in the great majority of cases [5].
  • Arthroplasty with a metal radial head implant was found to have been a safe and effective treatment option for patients with an unreconstructible radial head fracture at short-term followup [8].
  • Radial head implants offer a reliable treatment for complex Mason type III and IV fractures, with good functional and survival outcomes and a low incidence of complications [10].
  • Treatment of radial head fractures may have an independent effect on outcome; reconstruction of comminuted radial head fractures is recommended in the context of a terrible triad injury if stable fixation can be achieved [11].
  • The clinical and radiographic outcomes of revision surgery of radial head prostheses are favorable [14].
  • The outcome of patients undergoing treatment for terrible triad injuries is similar whether the patient's radial head was excised or replaced [16].
  • Patients with radial head arthroplasty (RHA) implanted within 4 weeks for nonreconstructable fractures of the radial head sustained a limited number of failures and obtained a good long-term clinical outcome despite a relatively high rate of post-traumatic arthritis [17].
  • Radial head treatment was associated with increased reoperation risk in terrible triad injuries, leading to a recommendation for fixation when feasible [19].
  • It is important to assess for concurrent injuries and specific complications related to each treatment modality rather than solely relying on general elbow function outcomes [20].
  • Nonsurgical management of minimally displaced radial neck fractures produces excellent results in most patients [23].
  • Open reduction of proximal radius fractures in children has been associated with particularly poor outcomes [23].
  • Fracture displacement of 2 to 3 mm is not necessarily an indication for surgical fixation in isolated fractures of the radial head [26].
  • No significant difference was found between monopolar and bipolar radial head prostheses in terms of efficacy and safety [43].
  • For displaced fractures with greater than 3 fragments, radial head replacement is recommended [46].
  • Arthroplasty may be preferred over tenuous fracture fixation in the setting of associated ligament injuries [46].
  • Intra-articular use of local anaesthetic after joint aspiration does not offer any benefit over aspiration alone in the treatment of undisplaced radial head fractures [51].

Complications

  • Patients with comminuted radial head fractures treated with radial head replacement demonstrate good medium-term outcomes [1].
  • Nonoperative management of isolated stable fractures of the radial head or neck results in excellent long-term patient-reported outcomes [2].
  • Conservative management of isolated Mason II radial head fractures yields favorable therapeutic outcomes with a low incidence of complications [3].
  • Operative fixation (ORIF) provides no clinical benefit compared to nonoperative management for isolated partial articular radial head fractures with displacement greater than 2 mm but less than 5 mm at short-term follow-up [4].
  • Early resection arthroplasty for radial head fractures offers satisfactory functional results in 96% of patients at long-term follow-up [5].
  • Radiographic degenerative changes are present in the great majority of cases following early resection arthroplasty for radial head fractures [5].
  • Complications of radial head fractures are characteristic to their classification [6].
  • Osteoporosis should be considered in a subset of patients with radial head and neck fractures [7].
  • Arthroplasty with a metal radial head implant is a safe and effective treatment option for unreconstructible radial head fractures at short-term follow-up [8].
  • Long-term follow-up data for metal radial head implants in unreconstructible fractures were noted as still needed at the time of the 2001 study [8].
  • Determining which structures require repair is important to avoid complications that could lead to elbow instability in isolated displaced type II partial articular radial head fractures [9].
  • Radial head implants offer reliable treatment for complex Mason type III and IV fractures with good functional and survival outcomes and a low incidence of complications [10].
  • Most injuries found with MRI in patients with radial head fractures are not symptomatic or of clinical importance in short-term follow-up [12].
  • A 69-year clinical and radiologic follow-up of a previously unknown radial head prosthesis has been reported [13].
  • Patients with radial head arthroplasty (RHA) implanted within 4 weeks for nonreconstructable fractures sustained a limited number of failures [17].
  • Despite a relatively high rate of post-traumatic arthritis, patients with RHA for nonreconstructable fractures obtained good long-term clinical outcomes [17].
  • Longer-term studies are required to ascertain whether the benefits of radial head arthroplasty are offset by late complications such as loosening [24].
  • The incidence of neurologic complications associated with surgical treatment of complex elbow fractures requiring radial head prosthesis implantation may be underestimated in the literature [53].

Recovery

  • Patients with comminuted radial head fractures do well with radial head replacement at medium-term follow-up [1].
  • Long-term patient-reported outcomes are excellent following nonoperative management of isolated stable fractures of the radial head or neck [2].
  • Conservative management of isolated Mason II radial head fractures yields favorable therapeutic outcomes with a low incidence of complications [3].
  • No clinical benefit with ORIF was found compared to nonoperative management of isolated partial articular radial head fractures with displacement greater than 2 mm but less than 5 mm at short-term follow-up [4].
  • Radial head fractures treated by early resection arthroplasty offer satisfactory functional results in 96% of patients at long-term follow-up [5].
  • Radiographic degenerative changes are present in the great majority of cases following early resection arthroplasty for radial head fractures [5].
  • Arthroplasty with a metal radial head implant is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with an unreconstructible radial head fracture at short-term follow-up [8].
  • Radial head implants offer reliable treatment for complex Mason type III and IV fractures with good functional and survival outcomes and a low incidence of complications [10].
  • Most injuries found with MRI in patients with radial head fractures are not symptomatic or of clinical importance in short-term follow-up [12].
  • The outcome of patients undergoing treatment for terrible triad injuries is similar whether the radial head was excised or replaced [16].
  • Patients with radial head arthroplasty (RHA) implanted within 4 weeks for nonreconstructable fractures sustained a limited number of failures [17].
  • Despite a relatively high rate of post-traumatic arthritis, patients with RHA implanted within 4 weeks for nonreconstructable fractures obtained a good long-term clinical outcome [17].
  • At short term, there were no differences between patients treated with ORIF for isolated radial head fractures and those treated for radial head fractures in association with other elbow injuries regarding pain and disability scores [36].
  • Two-year Kaplan-Meier survival free of revision or resection estimates and reoperation rates were equivalent between acute and delayed radial head arthroplasty groups [54].
  • The delayed group experienced worse Mayo Elbow Performance Score outcomes compared to the acute group [54].
  • The delayed group experienced a higher revision or resection rate at 5 years compared to the acute group [54].
  • The delayed group experienced an increased rate of radiographic loosening compared to the acute group [54].

Key Evidence

  • [L5] Medium-term data suggest that patients with comminuted radial head fractures do well with radial head replacement. [1] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.10.001)
  • [L4] Long-term patient-reported outcomes were excellent following the nonoperative management of isolated stable fractures of the radial head or neck. [2] (10.2106/jbjs.m.01354)
  • [L1] Based on the current evidence, conservative management of isolated Mason II radial head fractures yields favorable therapeutic outcomes with a low incidence of complications. [3] (10.1186/s13018-024-05039-6)
  • [L3] No clinical benefit with ORIF could be found compared to nonoperative management of isolated partial articular radial head fractures with displacement of greater than 2 mm but less than 5 mm at short-term followup. [4] (10.1007/s11999-014-3541-x)
  • [L4] Radial head fractures treated by early resection arthroplasty offer satisfactory functional results in 96% of patients at long-term follow-up, in spite of the radiographic degenerative changes present in the great majority of cases. [5] (10.1016/j.jse.2010.09.005)
  • [L4] The complications of radial head fractures are characteristic to their classification. [6] (10.1016/j.jse.2018.11.047)
  • [L4] Radial head and neck fractures have distinct epidemiological characteristics, and consideration for osteoporosis in a subset of patients is recommended. [7] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.09.034)
  • [L4] At the time of short-term followup, arthroplasty with a metal radial head implant was found to have been a safe and effective treatment option for patients with an unreconstructible radial head fracture; however, long-term follow-up is still needed. [8] (10.2106/00004623-200108000-00010)
  • [L3] It is important to determine which structures need to be repaired to avoid complications that could lead to elbow instability. [9] (10.1016/j.jse.2019.07.006)
  • [L4] Radial head implants offer a reliable treatment for complex Mason type III and IV fractures, with good functional and survival outcomes and a low incidence of complications. [10] (10.1016/j.jse.2025.05.038)
  • [L3] Treatment of radial head fractures may have an independent effect on outcome; the authors recommend reconstruction of comminuted radial head fractures in the context of a TTI, providing stable fixation can be achieved. [11] (10.1302/0301-620x.102b12.bjj-2020-2145)
  • [L2] Most injuries found with MRI in patients with radial head fractures are not symptomatic or of clinical importance in short-term follow-up. [12] (10.1016/j.jse.2011.06.011)
  • [L4] We have reported a 69-year clinical and radiologic follow-up of a previously unknown radial head prosthesis. [13] (10.1016/j.jse.2014.09.030)
  • [L4] The clinical and radiographic outcomes of revision surgery of radial head prostheses are favorable. [14] (10.1016/j.jse.2016.09.047)
  • [L4] Because apparently isolated, stable partial fractures of the radial head are infrequently displaced and observers have moderate disagreement regarding the diagnosis of displacement, it is likely that displacement is overdiagnosed. [15] (10.1016/j.jse.2006.10.015)
  • [L3] The outcome of patients undergoing treatment for terrible triad injuries is similar whether the patient's radial head was excised or replaced. [16] (10.1302/0301-620x.100b11.bjj-2018-0293.r1)
  • [L4] However, patients with RHA implanted within 4 weeks for nonreconstructable fractures of the radial head sustained a limited number of failures and, despite a relatively high rate of post-traumatic arthritis, obtained a good long-term clinical outcome. [17] (10.1016/j.jse.2025.06.026)
  • [L4] Fracture maps demonstrated no association between fracture line distribution and location of displaced partial articular fractures of the radial head and overall specific patterns of traumatic elbow instability, suggesting a common fracture mechanism that involves the anterolateral part of the radial head in most patients. [18] (10.1016/j.jse.2016.01.030)
  • [L3] No patient- or injury-related factors were associated with the reoperation risk, but radial head treatment was associated with increased risk, leading to a recommendation for fixation when feasible. [19] (10.1097/corr.0000000000001391)
  • [L4] It emphasizes the importance of assessing for concurrent injuries and specific complications related to each treatment modality rather than solely relying on general elbow function outcomes. [20] (10.1016/j.jse.2011.02.013)
  • [L5] Radial head arthroplasty is a reliable procedure for complex radial head fractures not amenable to reconstruction, particularly when associated with unstable elbows or forearm injuries, provided concomitant injuries are addressed. [21] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2009.01.027)
  • [L5] Forearm instability results from traumatic disruption of the radial head, interosseous membrane, and triangular fibrocartilage complex; delayed recognition and treatment lead to poor outcomes, making timely diagnosis and appropriate initial intervention imperative. [22] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.07.010)
  • [L5] Nonsurgical management of minimally displaced radial neck fractures produces excellent results in most patients, whereas open reduction has been associated with particularly poor outcomes. [23] (10.5435/jaaos-d-18-00204)
  • [L3] Longer-term studies will be required to ascertain whether the apparent benefits of radial head arthroplasty are offset by late complications of arthroplasty, such as loosening. [24] (10.1007/s11999-013-3331-x)
  • [L4] Recognition of the triad of triceps avulsion, radial head fracture, and MCL rupture is the key to appropriate treatment. [25] (10.1016/j.jse.2011.06.017)
  • [L2] This retrospective review suggests that fracture displacement of 2 to 3 mm is not necessarily an indication for surgical fixation in isolated fractures of the radial head. [26] (10.1016/j.jse.2013.01.019)
  • [L4] It can be of value alongside 3-dimensional imaging in evaluating elbow injuries and used as an adjunct in clinical decision making. [27] (10.1016/j.jse.2021.12.039)
  • [L4] This quantitative analysis confirms that the most common location of displaced articular fractures of part of the radial head (Mason type 2) is the anterolateral quadrant with the forearm in neutral rotation. [28] (10.1016/j.jse.2011.08.056)
  • [L5] Despite the complexities of this injury, an understanding of the relevant anatomy and the factors associated with elbow stability allows the application of a systematic algorithm for treatment that can help ensure sufficient elbow stability to allow early motion, thereby leading to improved outcomes in most patients. [29] (10.5435/00124635-200903000-00003)
  • [L5] The study successfully created and validated an anatomic model of terrible triad of the elbow by exerting axial compression on an elbow in 15° flexion and maximal pronation at speeds of 100 and 10 mm/min. [30] (10.1186/s13018-024-05069-0)
  • [L4] Detailed knowledge of fracture characteristics and their association with specific patterns of traumatic elbow instability may assist decision making and preoperative planning. [32] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.07.059)
  • [L5] Disruptions in any of these structures may lead to forearm instability with consequences at the remaining structures. [34] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2016.10.017)
  • [L5] Understanding the patterns of traumatic elbow instability helps the surgeon counsel and manage patients with these injuries. [35] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.05.002)
  • [L3] At short term, there were no differences between patients treated with ORIF for isolated radial head fractures and those treated for radial head fractures in association with other elbow injuries with regard to pain and disability scores. [36] (10.1007/s11999-014-3519-8)
  • [L4] Although the nature of floating elbow injuries is complex, the presence of nerve injury and intra-articular involvement predispose to worse clinical outcomes. [38] (10.1016/j.jse.2012.09.005)
  • [L4] Elbow arthroscopy has a significant diagnostic value in radial head fractures when compared to standard radiological imaging and revealed concomitant injuries even in patients with uneventful MRI/CT. [39] (10.1186/s12891-019-2726-6)
  • [L5] Long-term outcome with surgical management of complex elbow injuries is unknown. [42] (10.5435/00124635-200605000-00003)
  • [L1] No significant difference was found between monopolar and bipolar radial head prostheses in terms of efficacy and safety. [43] (10.1016/j.jse.2021.10.037)
  • [L3] The authors created a comprehensive classification of complex fracture-dislocations of the elbow that appeared to be reproducible and may represent a useful tool for the management of such difficult injuries. [45] (10.1016/j.jse.2011.06.003)
  • [L5] For displaced fractures with greater than 3 fragments, radial head replacement is recommended, and arthroplasty may be preferred over tenuous fracture fixation in the setting of associated ligament injuries. [46] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.12.024)
  • [L4] Trans-olecranon fracture posterior dislocation is a rare injury with unique characteristics involving complex elbow instability. [48] (10.1186/s13018-023-03563-5)
  • [L3] Selected Mason III radial head fractures and fracture dislocations could be stabilized satisfactorily with internal fixation. [50] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.09.016)
  • [L1] Intra-articular use of local anaesthetic after joint aspiration does not offer any benefit over aspiration alone in the treatment of undisplaced radial head fractures and its routine application is not supported by the clinical data. [51] (10.1016/j.jse.2009.04.003)
  • [L5] However, none of the prostheses functioned as well as the native radial head, suggesting that open reduction and internal fixation to restore radial head anatomy is preferable to replacement when possible. [52] (10.2106/00004623-200112000-00010)
  • [L4] The incidence of neurologic complications associated with the surgical treatment of complex elbow fractures requiring implantation of a radial head prosthesis may be underestimated in the literature. [53] (10.1016/j.jse.2020.01.086)
  • [L3] Although 2-year Kaplan-Meier survival free of revision or resection estimates and reoperation rates were equivalent between the groups, the delayed group experienced worse Mayo Elbow Performance Score outcomes, a higher revision or resection rate at 5 years, and an increased rate of radiographic loosening. [54] (10.1016/j.jse.2022.07.031)

References

[1] Radial Head Fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.10.001 [2] Long-Term Outcomes of Isolated Stable Radial Head Fractures. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.m.01354 [3] Comparison of operatively and nonoperatively treated isolated mason type II radial head fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research. 2024. DOI: 10.1186/s13018-024-05039-6 [4] Is ORIF Superior to Nonoperative Treatment in Isolated Displaced Partial Articular Fractures of the Radial Head?. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 2014. DOI: 10.1007/s11999-014-3541-x [5] Resection arthroplasty for radial head fractures: Long-term follow-up. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2010.09.005 [6] Surgical revision of radial head fractures: a multicenter retrospective analysis of 466 cases. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2019. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2018.11.047 [7] The Epidemiology of Radial Head and Neck Fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.09.034 [8] Arthroplasty with a Metal Radial Head for Unreconstructible Fractures of the Radial Head. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery-American Volume. 2001. DOI: 10.2106/00004623-200108000-00010 [9] Isolated displaced type II partial articular radial head fracture: correlation of preoperative imaging with intraoperative findings of lateral ulnar collateral ligament tear. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2019.07.006 [10] Long-term survival of Acumed anatomical radial head implant for Mason type III-IV fractures: a 15-year follow-up. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2025.05.038 [11] Infographic: Surgical treatment of the radial head in terrible triad injuries of the elbow. The Bone & Joint Journal. 2020. DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.102b12.bjj-2020-2145 [12] Magnetic resonance imaging in radial head fractures: most associated injuries are not clinically relevant. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.06.011 [13] Sixty-nine-year follow-up of a McKee radial head arthroplasty. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2014.09.030 [14] Clinical and radiographic outcome of revision surgery of radial head prostheses: midterm results in 16 patients. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2017. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2016.09.047 [15] Apparently isolated partial articular fractures of the radial head: Prevalence and reliability of radiographically diagnosed displacement. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2006.10.015 [16] Radial head resection versus prosthetic arthroplasty in terrible triad injury: a retrospective comparative cohort study. The Bone & Joint Journal. 2018. DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.100b11.bjj-2018-0293.r1 [17] What happens to the elbow 15 years after a radial head prosthesis? A clinical and imaging long-term follow-up study. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2025.06.026 [18] Fracture mapping of displaced partial articular fractures of the radial head. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2016. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2016.01.030 [19] What Factors Are Associated with Reoperation After Operative Treatment of Terrible Triad Injuries?. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 2020. DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000001391 [20] Comminuted radial head fractures: aspects of current management. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.02.013 [21] Radial Head Implant Arthroplasty. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2009. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2009.01.027 [22] Forearm Instability. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.07.010 [23] Proximal Radius Fractures in Children. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2019. DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-18-00204 [24] Fixation Versus Replacement of Radial Head in Terrible Triad: Is There a Difference in Elbow Stability and Prognosis?. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 2014. DOI: 10.1007/s11999-013-3331-x [25] Triceps avulsion, radial head fracture, and medial collateral ligament rupture about the elbow: a report of 4 cases. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.06.017 [26] A retrospective cohort study of displaced segmental radial head fractures: is 2 mm of articular displacement an indication for surgery?. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2013.01.019 [27] The coronoid opening angle: a novel radiographic technique to assess bone loss in coronoid trauma. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2021.12.039 [28] Quantitative measurement of radial head fracture location. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.08.056 [29] Terrible Triad Injury of the Elbow: Current Concepts. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2009. DOI: 10.5435/00124635-200903000-00003 [30] Creation of a replicable anatomic model of terrible triad of the elbow. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research. 2024. DOI: 10.1186/s13018-024-05069-0 [32] Quantitative 3-Dimensional Computed Tomography Measurements of Coronoid Fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.07.059 [34] Forearm Instability: Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Treatment Options. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2017. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2016.10.017 [35] Traumatic Elbow Instability. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.05.002 [36] Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Radial Head Fractures: Do Outcomes Differ Between Simple and Complex Injuries?. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 2014. DOI: 10.1007/s11999-014-3519-8 [38] Floating elbow injuries in adults: prognostic factors affecting clinical outcomes. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2012.09.005 [39] The value of elbow arthroscopy in diagnosing and treatment of radial head fractures. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2019. DOI: 10.1186/s12891-019-2726-6 [42] Complex Elbow Instability. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2006. DOI: 10.5435/00124635-200605000-00003 [43] Efficacy and safety of monopolar versus bipolar radial head arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2021.10.037 [45] Complex fracture-dislocations of the proximal ulna and radius in adults: a comprehensive classification. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.06.003 [46] Radial Head Fractures—An Update. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2009. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.12.024 [48] Trans-olecranon fracture posterior dislocation: a novel type of elbow injury. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research. 2023. DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-03563-5 [50] Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Mason Type III Radial Head Fractures With and Without an Associated Elbow Dislocation. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.09.016 [51] Aspiration alone versus aspiration and bupivacaine injection in the treatment of undisplaced radial head fractures: A prospective randomized study. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2009. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2009.04.003 [52] Contribution of Monoblock and Bipolar Radial Head Prostheses to Valgus Stability of the Elbow. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery-American Volume. 2001. DOI: 10.2106/00004623-200112000-00010 [53] Neurologic complications after surgical management of complex elbow trauma requiring radial head replacement. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2020.01.086 [54] Acute versus delayed radial head arthroplasty for the treatment of radial head fractures. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2022.07.031