Vitallium radial head prosthesis for acute and chronic elbow fractures and fracture-dislocations involving the radial head

J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2006 Jul-Aug;15(4):463-73. doi: 10.1016/j.jse.2005.09.010.

Abstract

This retrospective study aims to evaluate the radiographic, functional, and patient-derived outcomes of 16 patients who each received a Vitallium radial head prosthesis for unreconstructable acute fractures of the radial head, as well as previously treated fractures of the radial head associated with residual instability, pain, and stiffness. Follow-up averaged 33 months. A trend toward greater disability and poorer motion was noted in the delayed treatment group compared with the acute replacement group. Overall, the results were excellent in 5 patients, good in 10, and poor in 1, as determined by the Mayo Elbow Performance Score. All elbows were stable at follow-up, and no patient reported wrist pain. Four required further operative treatment of their elbow injuries. Metallic radial head arthroplasty yields satisfactory results in acute unreconstructable radial head fractures or as a salvage procedure for previously treated radial head fractures.

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chronic Disease
  • Elbow Joint / surgery*
  • Female
  • Fractures, Bone / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / surgery*
  • Joint Prosthesis*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Radius Fractures / surgery*
  • Vitallium*

Substances

  • Vitallium