Arthroscopic Radial Head Implant Removal and Resection

Displaced radial head fractures are treated with open reduction and internal fixation using implants. Failure of fixation may occur in the presence of comminution and in multifragmentary fractures; open surgical approaches are necessary for removal of the implants and radial head resection. Arthroscopic radial head resection has been described as a minimally invasive and effective treatment for failed radial head fracture fixation; however, periarticular adhesions and prominent implants add to the complexity and technical difficulty of the procedure. The described technique uses 3 portals for adhesiolysis, implant removal, and radial head resection. Resection is performed in stages; smaller-diameter instruments are used to gain and improve access, and larger resectors are used subsequently. Adequacy of resection is assessed arthroscopically and with biplanar imaging. The arthroscopic technique avoids the need for an open surgical approach and prevents subsequent morbidity. In addition, the rehabilitation time is shorter and patient satisfaction is high.