Short term results of replacement arthroplasty in irreparable Mason type-III radial head fractures

11^th International Conference on Arthroplasty

September 24-25, 2018 London, UK

Anish Agarwalla

Safdarjung Hospital-VMM College, India

ScientificTracks Abstracts: J Arthroplasty

Abstract :

Background & Aim: The radial head is considered as the main stabilizer of the elbow especially when the medial and lateral ulnar collateral ligaments have been damaged. Radial Head Arthroplasty (RHA) is indicated for patients with unreconstructible radial head fractures. The present study was carried out to analyze the early clinical results after treatment of irreparable radial head fractures with radial head replacement.

Methods: 32 patients with Mason’s type-III radial head fractures were treated with cemented Monoblock stainless steel radial head replacement during 2014-2016. The patients were followed up for a period ranging from minimum of 12 months to a maximum of 23 months, with average being 16 months. During each visit their functional outcome with any associated complications were noted and were graded with Mayo’s Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).

Results: At the final follow up, 24 patients (75%) had excellent results, 6 (18.75%) good and two (6.25%) had fair results. Six (6) patients were associated with complications like pain, stiffness and valgus elbow instability. Variables like MEPS, pain and stiffness were found to have significant association with time interval between injury and surgery, with cases being operated earlier showing better results. Significant association was also seen between associated elbow injury and elbow instability. No case of radiocapitellar overstuffing was seen. However, one case was associated with lateral epicondylitis which is a relatively rare non-documented complication.

Conclusion: We conclude that radial head arthroplasty is a good treatment option for irreparable type-III radial head fractures with cases operated earlier showing better results. It restores elbow kinematics and stability with good functional outcome, provided care has been taken to avoid overstuffing of the joint. Early mobilization of elbow is important to restore elbow motion and function.

Biography :

Anish Agarwalla has completed his Post-graduation from Central Institute of Orthopedics, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi and is currently serving as a Senior Resident at the same place. He is highly interested in academics and research related works. He is the co-author of two books and interested in joint disorders.

E-mail: dranishagarwalla@gmail.com