Treatment of displaced radial head fractures by internal fixation with absorbable pins.
OBJECTIVE
To study the effect of internal fixation with absorbable pins on treatment of displaced radial head fractures.


METHODS
From May 1999 to May 2004, 16 patients with displaced radial head fractures (Mason types II and III) were treated with internal fixation by absorbable pins. The duration of follow-up averaged 22.6 months (12-58 months). The outcome was assessed on the basis of elbow motion, radiographic findings and the functional rating score delineated by Broberg and Morrey.


RESULTS
All fractures healed within 10 months without avascular necrosis of radial head. The mean elbow flexion loss was 15 degrees (0 degrees-35 degrees), and pronation and supination decreased by 10 degrees (0 degrees-30 degrees) on average compared with those of the contralateral elbow. Five patients had an excellent result, 6 a good result, and 3 a fair result according to the criteria of Borberg and Morrey.


CONCLUSIONS
Internal fixation with absorbable pins is an effective method in treating displaced radial head fractures. It can maintain the biomechanical stability of forearm, improve the elbow function and avoid second operation.
Hou
Zhen-hai
ZH
Department of Orthopaedic Trauma, 117th Hospital of PLA, Hangzhou 310004, China. zhhou1512@sohu.com
Zhou
Ji-hong
JH
Shi
Jian-guo
JG
Shi
Yi-bin
YB
Xia
Jun-jie
JJ
Yao
Jun
J
D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D011884:Radius / Q000601:surgery; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*