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Comparison of Radial Head Prosthesis versus Excision in Comminuted Radial Head Fractures: A Retrospective Comparative
Hemal Kumar V Patel1, Mit Parikh1, Ravikumar Donda1
1Department of Orthopaedics, B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports
|June 11, 2026
Summary
Radial head replacement surgery provides superior early functional outcomes and joint stability compared to radial head excision for complex fractures. This finding is crucial for managing these challenging elbow injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Traumatology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Complex comminuted fractures of the radial head (Mason type III/IV) present significant management challenges in orthopedic trauma.
- Current treatment options include radial head excision and radial head prosthesis, each with distinct potential outcomes and complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the functional and clinical outcomes of radial head prosthesis versus radial head excision in patients with acute, displaced Mason type III or IV radial head fractures.
- To evaluate differences in post-operative scores, complication rates, and joint stability between the two surgical interventions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 40 adult patients with acute, displaced radial head fractures (Mason Type III/IV).
- Patients were divided into two groups: radial head excision (n=20) and radial head replacement arthroplasty (n=20).
- Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) and Broberg-Morrey scores at a minimum 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- The radial head prosthesis group demonstrated significantly higher MEPI and Broberg-Morrey scores at all follow-up points (P < 0.05).
- Instability was observed in 40% of patients who underwent radial head excision, with no instability reported in the prosthesis group.
- Operative time and hospital stay were longer for the prosthesis group compared to the excision group.
Conclusions:
- Radial head replacement arthroplasty is associated with superior early functional outcomes and improved joint stability for complex radial head fractures.
- The findings suggest that radial head prosthesis is a favorable option for managing these challenging fractures, potentially reducing the risk of instability.
