Internal fixation of fractures of the head of the radius

In a group of 25 patients with a displaced fracture of the head of the radius (which otherwise would have been treated by resection) operative reduction and internal fixation were carried out. The results, after a follow-up ranging from six months to over two years after operation, were excellent in 17 (no pain and no restriction of movement) and fair to good in eight patients (no pain and restriction of less than 20 degrees). None of the patients had a bad result. The advantages of this technique, which conserves the length of the radius, are discussed.