Radial Head Resection versus Arthroplasty in Unrepairable Comminuted Fractures Mason Type III and Type IV: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Unrepairable comminuted fractures of the radial head Mason type III or type IV have poor outcomes when treated by open reduction and internal fixation. Radial head resection has been proposed as good option for surgical treatment, while in the last decades, the development of technology and design in radial head prosthesis has increased efficacy in prosthetic replacement. The present review was conducted to determine the best surgical treatment for comminuted radial head when ORIF is not possible. Better outcomes are reported for radial head arthroplasty in terms of elbow stability, range of motion, pain, and fewer complications compared to radial head excision. Nevertheless, radial head resection still can be considered an option of treatment in isolated radial head fractures with no associated ligament injuries lesion of ligaments or in case of older patients with low demanding function.