[Osteosynthesis of radial head fractures in adults]

The authors report their experience and the results of internal fixation of radial head fractures in adults. They studied type 2 and type 3 fractures of Mason classification. Results were appraised with criteria of Radin and Riseborough. They found a rate of 80 per cent of objectively good or fair results. Fractures with one fragment (type 2) and without associated lesions (like sprain or dislocation of elbow) had the best results which depended of the quality of internal fixation. The series reported in the literature using the same operative technique are comparable. The results are equal or better than head resection with or without arthroplasty. Internal fixation is considered as the best operative technique for displaced fractures in adults. Reduction must be perfect. Head resection must be considered per-operatively if a perfect reduction is technically impossible to achieve.