[Fragment dislocation and surgical indications in segmental fractures of the radial head]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of primary displacement of fragments of the radial head on the clinical result after conservative therapy, also to see whether the extent of displacement could give valuable indications for operation. In non-displaced fractures the results are slightly but significantly better than in displaced fractures. On the other hand, the amount of displacement must be considered to be of minor importance. In 64 percent of conservatively treated patients the results were good despite displacement and the results were similar after primary open reduction. It has to be assumed that undiagnosed lesions of the joint capsule and ligaments are the most important cause of residual functional deficits.