[Primary radial head arthroplasty in trauma : Complications]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Radial head fractures are frequent elbow injuries.
• Treatment varies from conservative management to surgical fixation.
• Complex fractures present management challenges with unpredictable outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review common complications associated with radial head arthroplasty in acute fracture settings.
• To present strategies for avoiding these complications.
• To emphasize the role of radial head arthroplasty in complex radial head fractures.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of radial head fracture treatments.
• Analysis of outcomes and complication rates for different surgical techniques.
• Focus on radial head arthroplasty in acute trauma.

Main Results:

• Non-displaced fractures are managed conservatively.
• Displaced fractures may require screws or plating.
• Radial head arthroplasty shows good results for complex fractures but has significant complication rates (up to 40%).

Conclusions:

• Radial head arthroplasty is a valuable option for complex radial head fractures.
• High complication rates necessitate careful patient selection and surgical technique.
• Strategies to avoid complications are crucial for favorable outcomes.