Long term results after bipolar radial head arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Radial head fractures are common, particularly in young, active individuals.
• Complex fractures (Mason type III and IV) present treatment challenges.
• Radial head prosthesis replacement is a common treatment, but long-term data is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the mid- to long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of the Judet Bipolar Radial Head prosthesis.
• To assess functional recovery using the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score.
• To identify any correlations between radiological findings and functional results.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 34 patients treated with Judet Bipolar Radial Head prosthesis (2000-2008).
• 21 patients underwent mid- to long-term follow-up (mean 9.4 years) including MEPI, DASH scores, and range of motion measurements.
• Radiographic evaluation for complications such as ossifications, radiolucent lines, and bone erosion.

Main Results:

• Mean MEPI score was 88.6, with 14 excellent, 1 good, 5 fair, and 1 poor result.
• Mean DASH score was 23.1.
• Radiographic findings included degenerative arthritis in 10 patients and bone erosion in one; no prosthesis dislocations were reported.

Conclusions:

• The Judet Bipolar Radial Head implant yields mainly good clinical results.
• Long-term functional outcomes are less favorable than short- to mid-term results.
• No clear correlation was found between radiological signs and functional outcomes.