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Updated: Jun 10, 2026

10:10
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
Radial head arthroplasty.
James T Monica1, Chaitanya S Mudgal
1Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery Service, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Yawkey Center, Suite 2100, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Hand Clinics
|July 31, 2010
Summary
Radial head arthroplasty is a promising treatment for complex elbow fractures. This review covers surgical techniques, indications, and implant options for radial head replacement.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Traumatology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Comminuted radial head fractures often lead to elbow instability.
- Surgical intervention is frequently required for optimal functional recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss surgical considerations for radial head arthroplasty.
- To review current implant options and outcomes for this procedure.
Main Methods:
- Review of surgical anatomy and technique for radial head arthroplasty.
- Literature review of outcomes associated with radial head arthroplasty.
- Analysis of available radial head implant systems.
Main Results:
- Radial head arthroplasty is a viable option for specific fracture patterns.
- Careful patient selection and surgical technique are crucial for success.
- A range of implant designs are available, each with potential benefits.
Conclusions:
- Radial head arthroplasty offers a valuable solution for comminuted radial head fractures.
- Understanding surgical nuances and implant characteristics optimizes patient outcomes.
- Further research can refine techniques and implant development.
Related Concept Videos
Bones of the Upper Limb: Radius
The radius is longer of the two bones that make up the human antebrachium or forearm. At the proximal end, the radius articulates with the capitulum of the humerus and the radial notch of the ulna to form the elbow joint. At the distal end, the radius articulates with the ulna via the ulnar notch, forming the distal radioulnar joint. Distally, the radius also attaches to the carpal wrist bones (scaphoid and lunate) to form the radiocarpal joint.
The radius has a nail-shaped head, and a short...
The radius has a nail-shaped head, and a short...
Assessment of apical radial pulse
Apical-Radial (A-R) Pulse Assessment
The A-R pulse assessment involves simultaneous evaluation of the apical and radial pulses. When the apical and radial pulse rates vary, this assessment helps identify a pulse deficit.
Pre-Procedural Preparation
The A-R pulse assessment involves simultaneous evaluation of the apical and radial pulses. When the apical and radial pulse rates vary, this assessment helps identify a pulse deficit.
Pre-Procedural Preparation
Assessment of radial pulse
Assessment of Radial Pulse
The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is often the preferred site for assessing peripheral pulse because of its accessibility and dependability. The process of determining the radial pulse involves several steps:
The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is often the preferred site for assessing peripheral pulse because of its accessibility and dependability. The process of determining the radial pulse involves several steps:
