Abstract

The radial head plays a critical role in the stability of the elbow joint and its range of motion. Injuries may occur across a spectrum of severity, ranging from low energy non-displaced fractures to high energy comminuted fractures. Multiple classification systems exist to help characterize radial head fractures and their associated injuries, as well as to guide treatment strategies. Depending on the type of fracture, non-operative management may be possible if early range of motion is initiated. Other options include open reduction and internal fixation or excision followed by arthroplasty. A lateral approach is typically used for adequate surgical exposure. Controversy still remains regarding operative management of more severe fractures, but studies have shown good outcomes after radial head replacement for these fractures. We will review the current treatments available for radial head fractures, highlighting gaps in knowledge, as well as providing recommendations for the care of these injuries.

Level of evidence: Level V.

Details

Title
Maximizing outcomes in the treatment of radial head fractures
Author
Swensen, Stephanie J 1 ; Tyagi, Vineet 2 ; Uquillas, Carlos 1 ; Shakked, Rachel J 1 ; Yoon, Richard S 3 ; Liporace, Frank A 3 

 Division of Orthopaedic Trauma, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, NY, USA 
 Division of Orthopaedic Trauma, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA 
 Division of Orthopaedic Trauma and Complex Adult Reconstruction, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jersey City Medical Center at RWJ Barnabas Health, Jersey City, NJ, USA 
Pages
1-9
Publication year
2019
Publication date
Dec 2019
Publisher
Springer Nature B.V.
ISSN
15909921
e-ISSN
15909999
Source type
Scholarly Journal
Language of publication
English
ProQuest document ID
2196128885
Copyright
Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology is a copyright of Springer, (2019). All Rights Reserved., © 2019. This work is published under http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ (the “License”). Notwithstanding the ProQuest Terms and Conditions, you may use this content in accordance with the terms of the License.