On-table reconstruction and fixation of Mason type III radial head fractures

Purpose: To evaluate the functional and radiological outcome of comminuted radial head fractures, which were not amenable for classical open reduction with internal fixation, treated by on-table reconstruction and fixation using low profile plates. Methods: We reviewed 6 patients of Mason type III radial head fractures treated by on-table reconstruction technique between 2011 and 2013. There were 5 men and 1 woman with a mean age of 35 years (range 25-46 years). All surgeries were carried out at our tertiary care level 1 trauma centre within a mean of 3 days (range 1-8 days) from date of injury using on-table reconstruction technique. The functional outcome was measured using elbow functional rating index described by Broberg and Morrey and the patient-based Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) outcome measure. Results: The mean follow-up period was 25 months. The average elbow flexion was 135 (range 125°-140°) and the average flexion contracture was 5 (range 0-10°). The average supination and pronation was 75 (range 70°-80°) and 70 (range 65°-82°) respectively. According to Broberg and Morrey scoring system, the average score was 90 points (range 75-100). The mean DASH score was 2.49 points. Conclusion: On-table reconstruction and fixation of comminuted radial head fractures using low profile plates is a reasonable option. The reconstructed radial head acts as spacer and provides reasonably good results and no surgical intervention is required for asymptomatic nonunion of these fractures regardless of the radiological findings.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of radial head fractures

Open reduction and internal fixation of displaced fractures of the radial head were reviewed in 14 elbows. Follow-up averaged 32 months. The average elbow score for Mason type II fractures was 96.8 points, corresponding to 100% good or excellent results. Average flexion was 142.5 degrees, and the mean fixed flexion deformity was 3.9 degrees. There was no loss in grip strength. An almost normal elbow was the expected result. Good or excellent results were achieved in only 33% of Mason type III fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation. The average elbow score was 72.9 points, and this was statistically significantly different than the Mason type II fractures (p less than 0.05). An associated elbow dislocation did not affect the results significantly, but was associated with a slightly increased fixed flexion deformity. Fractures may be more comminuted than suggested by plain radiographs, and intraoperative decision making is required in deciding between reconstruction or excision of the radial head. Excellent results were obtained provided an anatomical reduction with stable fixation and early range of motion were achieved. If a stable anatomic reduction cannot be obtained, then alternative treatment methods should be considered.     

Newly defined fracture pattern specific to Mason III radial head fractures: fracture description, management and outcomes using screw fixation

Background: Radial head fractures are the most common type of elbow fracture and are universally classified under the Mason classification system. Mason type III fractures are comminuted and are the most difficult to treat, generally requiring plating if possible, or more commonly arthroplasty or excision, which gives a variable outcome. We hypothesized that a new and specific fracture pattern of the radial head (Mason III) can be treated successfully with screw fixation. Methods: Six patients presented to the senior surgeon's clinic with this unusual Mason III fracture pattern. In these patients, the fracture was acute, requiring an open reduction and internal fixation with the use of three headless compression screws. Average follow‐up time was 21 months. Using serial X‐rays and the Broberg–Morrey elbow score, the six acute fractures were evaluated radiologically and functionally. Results: All six patients had good to excellent results using the Broberg–Morrey scoring system. All patients showed radiological and clinical union within 3 months of injury. No patient required revision surgery or excision at a later date. Discussion: We have recognized a specific type of comminuted and displaced Mason III radial head fracture that has not previously been described in the literature. This type of fracture is amenable to open reduction internal fixation with buried compression screws giving a good to excellent outcome, while avoiding the common consequences seen with a radial head excision, arthroplasty or plate fixation.     

Radiusköpfchenfraktur und Ellenbogenluxation

Fractures of the radial head can occur isolated or in association with injuries to the elbow (10% of elbow dislocations being combined with fractures of the radial head). Attention to associated injuries is essential during the diagnostic investigations, as they influence the management significantly. These fractures are classified according to the system proposed by Mason. Mason type 1 fractures are managed with conservative and functional treatment. Mason type 2 fractures are treated surgically, normally by internal fixation with screws. The treatment of Mason type 3 or 4 fractures usually involves excision of the radial head. When instability persists after this, implantation of a prosthesis is recommended. Depending on the severity and complexity of the injury, some loss of function must be expected. Recent studies have recorded good results following reconstruction of the radial head, even in the case of comminuted fractures; any deficit remaining is often functionally insignificant. The excision of the radial head also results in good to acceptable outcomes. Although long-term results with the modular prosthesis are still lacking, in the majority of the studies so far good functional results with low rates of loosening have been observed.     

Reconstruction of Mason type-III and type-IV radial head fractures with a new fixation device: 23 patients followed 1-4 years

BACKGROUND: Treatment options in radial head fractures of Mason types III and IV range from open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to radial head resection with or without prosthetic replacement. PATIENTS: In a prospective study, the radiographic and clinical outcome was evaluated in 23 patients (age median 51 years) with 23 complex radial head fractures median 2 (1-4) years after ORIF using a new fixation device (FFS; Orthofix). 14 Mason type-III fractures with 2 concomitant olecranon fractures and 1 ulnar nerve lesion, and 11 type-IV fractures with 2 olecranon fractures and 2 fractures of the coronoid process were treated. 2 patients were lost to follow-up. In 7 cases of joint instability, an elbow fixator with motion capacity was applied after ORIF of the radial head. RESULTS: No radial head resection was necessary. No secondary dislocations or nonunion occurred. The Morrey elbow score was excellent in 8 and good in 4 Mason type-III fractures and excellent in 5, good in 3, and fair in 3 Mason type-IV fractures. INTERPRETATION: Reconstruction of comminuted radial head fractures can be performed with this device and radial head resection can be avoided.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of comminuted fractures of the radial head using low-profile mini-plates

Between 1996 and 2000, we treated ten patients with severely comminuted fractures of the radial head using low-profile mini-plates. Their mean age was 42 years (24 to 71). Three fractures were Mason type III and seven were Mason-Johnston type IV. At a mean follow-up of 28.5 months (15 to 44), all fractures had united. The plates were removed in nine patients. No patient had difficulty with daily activities or symptoms of instability of the elbow. The mean range of flexion of the elbow was from 7 degrees to 135 degrees, with 74 degrees of supination and 85 degrees of pronation. According to the Broberg and Morrey functional elbow index, the mean score was 90.7 points (73 to 100), and the outcome was excellent in three patients, good in six and fair in one. These results compare favourably with those reported previously. The technique is applicable to severely comminuted fractures of the radial head which otherwise would require excision.     

Management of post-traumatic elbow instability after failed radial head excision:A case report

Radial head excision has always been a safe commonly used surgical procedure with a satisfactory clinical outcome for isolated comminuted radial head fractures. However, diagnosis of elbow instability is still very challenging and often underestimated in routine orthopaedic evaluation. We present the case of a 21-years old female treated with excision after radial head fracture, resulting in elbow instability. The patient underwent revision surgery after four weeks. We believe that ligament reconstruction without radial head substitution is a safe alternative choice for Mason III radial head fractures accompanied by complex ligament lesions.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of Mason type III radial head fractures with and without an associated elbow dislocation

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the treatment of patients with Mason type III radial head fracture with and without elbow dislocation by open reduction with internal fixation, collateral ligament repair, and early mobilization. An additional purpose was to investigate whether there is any effect of elbow dislocation on the severity and functional outcome. METHODS: Twenty-five patients were treated with open reduction with internal fixation using low-profile miniplate and screws for comminuted fracture of the radial head. Eighteen fractures were Mason type III, and 7 fractures were Mason type III with elbow dislocation. There were 5 women and 20 men with a mean age of 34 years. The mean follow-up time was 27 months. Patients were reviewed for functional ability, physical examination, and radiographic assessment. RESULTS: The mean functional index in Mason type III fracture and Mason type III fracture with elbow dislocation was 87 for both groups. The mean range of motion at the elbow joint was calculated as 5 degrees extension to 136 degrees flexion for Mason type III and 7 degrees extension to 133 degrees flexion for Mason type III with elbow dislocation. The mean pronation and supination for all patients were 74 degrees and 67 degrees , respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Selected Mason III radial head fractures and fracture dislocations could be stabilized satisfactorily with internal fixation. Meticulous surgical technique, combined with rigid internal fixation, can allow early motion of the forearm and elbow after fixation of Mason type III radial head fractures with and without elbow dislocation and ligamentous injury. We believe there is still a role for prosthetic replacement in comminuted Mason III radial head fractures that cannot reliably be treated with open reduction and internal fixation. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic II.     

切开复位on-table技术重建并内固定治疗桡骨头粉碎骨折

目的探讨on-table技术复位重建内并固定治疗桡骨头粉碎性骨折的临床疗效。方法采用切开复位on-table技术重建并克氏针、螺钉钢板、内固定术治疗16例桡骨头粉碎骨折患者,评价肘关节功能。结果患者均获随访,时间12~18个月。骨折愈合,时间6~12个月。末次随访时肘关节活动范围:伸直0°~23°,屈曲86°~139°,旋前56°~72°,旋后36°~83°。按照Broberg-Morrey功能评价:优11例,良2例,可3例。结论切开复位on-table技术重建内固定治疗桡骨头粉碎性骨折能取得较好的效果,是桡骨头切除或桡骨头置换之外的又一选择。     

Reconstruction of Mason type-III and type-IV radial head fractures with a new fixation device: 23 patients followed 1–4 years

Background?Treatment options in radial head fractures of Mason types III and IV range from open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to radial head resection with or without prosthetic replacement.

Patients?In a prospective study, the radiographic and clinical outcome was evaluated in 23 patients (age median 51 years) with 23 complex radial head fractures median 2 (1–4) years after ORIF using a new fixation device (FFS; Orthofix). 14 Mason type-III fractures with 2 concomitant olecranon fractures and 1 ulnar nerve lesion, and 11 type-IV fractures with 2 olecranon fractures and 2 fractures of the coronoid process were treated. 2 patients were lost to follow-up. In 7 cases of joint instability, an elbow fixator with motion capacity was applied after ORIF of the radial head.

Results?No radial head resection was necessary. No secondary dislocations or nonunion occurred. The Morrey elbow score was excellent in 8 and good in 4 Mason type-III fractures and excellent in 5, good in 3, and fair in 3 Mason type-IV fractures.

Interpretation?Reconstruction of comminuted radial head fractures can be performed with this device and radial head resection can be avoided.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of fractures of the radial head

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this retrospective study was to analyze the functional results following open reduction and internal fixation of fractures of the radial head and to determine which fracture patterns are most amenable to this treatment. METHODS: Fifty-six patients in whom an intra-articular fracture of the radial head had been treated with open reduction and internal fixation were evaluated at an average of forty-eight months after injury. Thirty patients had a Mason Type-2 (partial articular) fracture, and twenty-six had a Mason Type-3 (complete articular) fracture. Twenty-seven of the fifty-six fractures were associated with a fracture-dislocation of the forearm or elbow or an injury of the medial collateral ligament. Fifteen of the thirty Type-2 fractures were comminuted. Fourteen of the twenty-six Type-3 fractures consisted of more than three fragments, and twelve consisted of two or three fragments. The result at the final evaluation was judged to be unsatisfactory when there was early failure of fixation or nonunion requiring a second operation to excise the radial head, <100 degrees of forearm rotation, or a fair or poor rating according to the system of Broberg and Morrey. RESULTS: The result was unsatisfactory for four of the fifteen patients with a comminuted Mason Type-2 fracture of the radial head; all four fractures had been associated with a fracture-dislocation of the forearm or elbow, and all four patients recovered <100 degrees of forearm rotation. Thirteen of the fourteen patients with a Mason Type-3 comminuted fracture with more than three articular fragments had an unsatisfactory result. In contrast, all fifteen patients with an isolated, noncomminuted Type-2 fracture had a satisfactory result. Of the twelve patients with a Type-3 fracture that split the radial head into two or three simple fragments, none had early failure, one had nonunion, and all had an arc of forearm rotation of > or =100 degrees. CONCLUSIONS: Although current implants and techniques for internal fixation of small articular fractures have made it possible to repair most fractures of the radial head, our data suggest that open reduction and internal fixation is best reserved for minimally comminuted fractures with three or fewer articular fragments. Associated fracture-dislocation of the elbow or forearm may also compromise the long-term result of radial head repair, especially with regard to restoration of forearm rotation.     

Herbert螺钉内固定治疗桡骨小头骨折15例

目的：观察随访用Herbert螺钉内固定治疗MasonⅡ、Ⅲ型桡骨小头骨折的临床近期疗效。方法：2008年3月至2010年7月,采用切开复位Herbert螺钉内固定治疗15例MasonⅡ、Ⅲ型桡骨小头骨折,男6例,女9例;年龄18～55岁,平均32岁;左侧7例,右侧8例。受伤到入院时间3～10h。患者入院时肘部肿胀疼痛,肘关节活动受限,肘关节可闻骨擦音,X线片示桡骨小头骨折。对患者术后肘关节功能恢复观察采用Mayo肘部评分系统。结果：术后患者伤口愈合Ⅰ/甲,术后未见肘关节骨化性肌炎,随访6～15个月,依据Mayo肘部评分,优8例,良5例,可2例。Mayo评分（86.67±1.26）分,其中疼痛（53.33±9.76）分,关节活动度（27.33±4.58）分,关节稳定性（6.00±2.07）分;肘关节活动度70°～130°,平均（105±10）°,前臂旋转度100°～130°,平均（120±16）°。结论：用Herbert螺钉对MasonⅡ型及部分MasonⅢ型桡骨小头骨折固定,复位满意、固定可靠、方法简单,利于早期进行功能锻炼。     

Comminuted fractures of the radial head. Comparison of resection and internal fixation

BACKGROUND: Satisfactory internal fixation of comminuted radial head fractures is often difficult to achieve, and radial head resection has been the accepted treatment. In this study, we compared the results of radial head resection with those of open reduction and internal fixation in patients with a comminuted radial head fracture. METHODS: Twenty-eight patients with a Mason type-III radial head fracture (some with associated injuries) were enrolled in the study. Fifteen patients underwent radial head resection as the initial treatment (Group I), and thirteen patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation (Group II). The age at the operation averaged 41.1 and 38.2 years, respectively, and the duration of follow-up averaged ten and three years, respectively. The outcomes were assessed on the basis of pain, motion, radiographic findings, and strength measured with Cybex testing. The overall outcome was rated with the functional rating score described by Broberg and Morrey and with the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Elbow Assessment Form. RESULTS: Elbow motion averaged 15.5 degrees (extension loss) to 131.4 degrees (flexion) in Group I and 7.1 degrees to 133.8 degrees in Group II. The carrying angle and ulnar variance averaged 8.2 degrees and 1.9 mm in Group I and 1.5 degrees and 0.5 mm in Group II. Compared with Group II, Group I had a loss of strength in extension, pronation, and supination (p < 0.01). The Broberg and Morrey functional rating score averaged 81.4 points in Group I and 90.7 points in Group II (p = 0.0034). The score on the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Elbow Assessment Form averaged 87.3 points in Group I and 94.6 points in Group II (p = 0.0031). CONCLUSIONS: The patients in whom the comminuted radial head fracture was treated with open reduction and internal fixation had satisfactory joint motion, with greater strength and better function than the patients who had undergone radial head resection. These results support a recommendation for open reduction and internal fixation in the treatment of this fracture.     

桡骨头置换术治疗桡骨头严重粉碎性骨折

目的探讨桡骨头置换术治疗桡骨头严重粉碎性骨折的疗效。方法 2006年6月至2009年2月行桡骨头置换术治疗6例桡骨头严重粉碎性骨折患者,男4例,女2例;年龄24～36岁,平均27.6岁;均为MasonⅢ型、Ⅳ型。结果术后6例患者全部获得随访,随访时间为4～36个月,平均27个月。除1例患者活动时外侧有摩擦感、轻度疼痛外,其余患者均恢复良好。按Broberg-Morrey评分标准进行综合评定,优4例,良1例,可1例,差0例,平均93.8分,患者满意度为100%。结论人工桡骨头置换术能够恢复肘关节的稳定性及活动度,是治疗桡骨头粉碎性骨折的一种良好术式。     

What happens to the elbow joint after fractured radial head excision? Clinical and radiographic study at a mean 15-yearfollow-up

Comminuted fractures of the radial head can be treated by radial head excision, open reduction and internal fixation, or radial head replacement. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiographic results of 22 patients with an isolated Mason type III fracture of the radial head treated by radial head excision. Mean age at the time of surgery was 36 years and average follow-up was 15 years. Overall outcome at the last follow-up was scored as excellent, good, fair or poor, considering elbow and wrist pain, valgus deformity, elbow and forearm range of motion, and elbow radiographic osteoarthritic changes. At follow-up mean pain score on VAS was was 1, average increase in elbow valgus deformity was 8°, mean flexion of the elbow was 138°, pronation of the forearm averaged 78°, and supination averaged 85°. Degenerative changes were scored as grade 0 in 4 patients, grade 1 in 14 patients, and grade 2 in 4 patients. The overall outcome was excellent in 18 patients and good in 4 patients. When a comminuted radial head fracture is not associated with elbow dislocation or ligamentous injuries, resection of the radial head is a valid surgical option because it is a simple and rapid technique, it has a low learning curve, and it has a high rate of excellent clinical and radiographic long-term results.     

Fractures of the radial head and neck treated with radial head excision

BACKGROUND: The reported long-term outcomes of the treatment of radial head and neck fractures with excision of the radial head have been mixed. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of primary or delayed radial head excision for the treatment of these fractures. METHODS: Sixty-one individuals (mean age, forty-four years) with thirty-nine Mason type-II, ten Mason type-III, and twelve Mason type-IV fractures were evaluated subjectively, objectively, and radiographically at a mean of eighteen years (range, eleven to thirty-three years) after treatment. Forty-three fractures were treated with primary radial head excision, and the remaining eighteen were treated with delayed radial head excision at a median of five months (range, one to 238 months) after the injury. RESULTS: At the time of follow-up, twenty-eight individuals had no symptoms, twenty-seven had occasional elbow pain, and six had daily pain. Four individuals with daily pain had had a Mason type-IV fracture. The range of motion of the formerly injured upper extremities was slightly less than that of the uninjured upper extremities in terms of flexion (139 degrees +/- 11 degrees compared with 142 degrees +/- 8 degrees ), extension (-7 degrees +/- 12 degrees compared with -1 degrees +/- 6 degrees ), and supination (77 degrees +/- 20 degrees compared with 85 degrees +/- 10 degrees ) (all p < 0.01). A higher percentage of formerly injured elbows than uninjured elbows had cysts, sclerosis, and osteophytes (73% compared with 7%; p < 0.001), but none had a reduced joint space. No differences were found between the outcomes for individuals treated with a primary radial head excision and those for individuals treated with a delayed excision. CONCLUSIONS: Following a displaced radial head or neck fracture, excision of the radial head often leads to a good or fair result. We found no differences in outcome between primary and delayed radial head excisions following a Mason type-II, III, or IV fracture. The outcomes are associated with the type of fracture, with Mason type-IV fractures having the worst results, rather than with the timing of the radial head excision (primary or delayed).     

Bold螺钉治疗MasonⅡ型桡骨小头骨折

目的探讨Bold螺钉内固定治疗Mason型桡骨小头骨折的临床疗效。方法自2006年5月至2009年6月,采用Bold螺钉内固定治疗Mason型桡骨小头骨折13例,男8例,女5例,年龄19～56岁,平均37.3岁。术后2d进行功能锻炼。术后定期X线复查,采用Broberg和Morrey肘关节功能评分标准评判疗效。结果所有患者均获得6～14个月随访,平均10个月。肘关节功能评分平均97分,优9例,良3例,差1例,优良率为92.3%。结论 Bold螺钉内固定治疗Mason型桡骨小头骨折,能精确重建关节面,早期功能锻炼,有助于恢复良好的肘关节功能,是一种治疗桡骨小头骨折的理想方法。     

Open reduction and internal fixation of radial head fractures

This study examines 32 patients operated for radial head fractures, mean age 48.7 years (range 26-76 years), Mason type II in 25 cases and Mason type III with 3 main fragments in 7 cases. Fractures were surgically reduced and fixed with Herbert's (12 cases) or Osteomed (20 cases) cannulated screws. The latter have a head that is <1 mm high and are only threaded distally. Both types of screw provide compression across the fracture. In Mason type II cases, the mean MEPS score was 98.4 and the DASH score 6.8. In Mason type III cases, MEPS was 99.3 and DASH 9.5. We believe that fixation can be carried out with screws alone, which are less invasive, and that the screw heads should preferably be completely buried, to avoid stiffness in prono-supination. In addition, suturing of the annular ligament and the joint capsule is made easier by the reduced invasiveness of screws. Screw treatment is effective in non-comminuted fractures of the radial head.     

Late Results of Absorbable Pin Fixation in the Treatment of Radial Head Fractures

The use of bioabsorbable pins with prolonged degradation periods for fracture fixation has raised concerns about adverse soft tissue reactions, including seromas, discharging sinuses, or osteolytic changes. We asked whether bioabsorbable pins of self-reinforced polylactic acid polymer used in radial head fractures resulted in such reactions. We retrospectively reviewed 21 patients followed a minimum of 36 months (mean, 81 months; range, 36-136 months). There were nine Mason II, 10 Mason III, and two Mason IV fractures, which were evaluated clinically and radiographically. All fractures healed well with no radiographic signs of osteolysis. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance score was 93.8 (range, 20-100), which is comparable to the outcome of historical groups with radial head arthroplasty. The mean range of flexion of the elbow was 9 degrees to 132 degrees , with 79 degrees pronation and 77 degrees supination. The grip strength of the operated arm was not affected in comparison to the contralateral arm (mean range, 38.6 versus 40.9 kg). No material-related adverse effects were observed during and beyond the degradation period. Our data suggest concerns about soft tissue or bony reactions from these materials in radial head fractures are not justified.     

Current concepts in the treatment of radial head fractures in the adult. A clinical and biomechanical approach

The treatment of simple radial head fractures type Mason-Hotchkiss 1 and 2 is unequivocal. In the case of a displacement of less than 2 mm (Mason-Hotchkiss 1), functional conservative treatment is indicated. If the displacement is more than 2 mm (Mason-Hotchkiss 2) internal fixation is indicated, combined with treatment of the soft-tissue injuries. The treatment of comminuted radial head fractures Mason-Hotchkiss type 3 is more controversial, as they are usually associated with ligament injuries. Conservative treatment appears to have unsatisfactory results. Opinions differ on surgical treatment, i.e. 1) excision of the radial head; 2) reconstruction by means of internal fixation; 3) excision and reconstruction with a prosthesis. Basic experimental research on human cadaver elbows shows the importance of the conservation of the radial head, especially in case of associated soft tissue injuries. In most cases a stable osteosynthesis is impossible, and in case of associated ligament disruptions, resection and reconstruction by means of a rigid radial head prosthesis should be considered. Experimental research demonstrates promising results for rigid radial head prostheses in human cadaver elbows with a resected radial head and failing medical collateral ligament. Short-term clinical studies seem to confirm this, but long-term results are as yet unknown.