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Updated: Mar 8, 2026
Potentiodynamic Corrosion Testing
Published on: September 4, 2016
Rare implant-specific complications of the MoPyC radial head prosthesis
Michael Hackl1, Kilian Wegmann1, Thomas C Koslowsky2
1Center for Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Uniklinik Köln, Köln, Germany; Köln Center for Musculoskeletal Biomechanics, Medical Faculty, University of Köln, Köln, Germany.
Background:
According to currently available data, the clinical short-term results of the MoPyC radial head prosthesis (Bioprofile, Tornier, Montbonnot-Saint-Martin, France) seem favorable. However, we have encountered several implant-specific complications in recent years. Hence, this case series reports rare complications after radial head arthroplasty with the MoPyC prosthesis to make surgeons aware of their existence and to provide information about the underlying cause and possible salvage strategies.
Methods:
A retrospective chart review from 2011 to 2016 was conducted to identify all adult patients with a minimum 2-year follow-up who underwent or were referred after radial head arthroplasty with the MoPyC radial head prosthesis and experienced implant-related complications.
Results:
Five patients with 7 implant-related complications were found. One patient experienced breakage of the pyrocarbon head. In another patient, breakage of the stem and-after revision surgery-partial breakage were observed. Disassembly of the prosthesis was seen in 1 case. Extensive periprosthetic stress shielding was seen in 3 patients resulting in symptomatic loosening (1), periprosthetic radial neck fracture (1), and stem migration (1).
Conclusions:
Whereas clinical short-term results of the MoPyC radial head prosthesis are satisfactory, rare implant-related complications can occur. Surgeons should be aware of these complications as they may lead to a poor outcome.
Insights
While short-term results for the MoPyC radial head prosthesis appear favorable, this study highlights rare but serious implant-related complications. Surgeons should be aware of potential issues like component breakage and stress shielding after radial head arthroplasty.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Implant Technology
Background:
- Short-term clinical outcomes of the MoPyC radial head prosthesis are generally positive.
- However, implant-specific complications have been observed in recent years.
- This case series aims to document rare complications associated with this specific prosthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report rare complications following radial head arthroplasty using the MoPyC prosthesis.
- To increase surgeon awareness of potential implant-related issues.
- To provide insights into the causes and potential salvage strategies for these complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of adult patients from 2011 to 2016.
- Inclusion criteria: minimum 2-year follow-up after MoPyC radial head prosthesis implantation or referral post-complication.
- Identification of patients experiencing implant-related complications.
Main Results:
- Seven implant-related complications were identified in five patients.
- Complications included pyrocarbon head breakage, stem breakage (with re-fracture after revision), and prosthesis disassembly.
- Three patients experienced extensive periprosthetic stress shielding, leading to symptomatic loosening, radial neck fracture, or stem migration.
Conclusions:
- Despite satisfactory short-term clinical results, the MoPyC radial head prosthesis can be associated with rare, severe complications.
- These complications can negatively impact patient outcomes.
- Awareness of these potential issues is crucial for surgeons performing or managing patients with this implant.
