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08-05-2024 | Radial Head Fracture | Original Paper

Usefulness of multiple bioabsorbable Mg screws/K‑wires for comminuted radial head fractures

Authors: Soo Min Cha, Sang Hyun Lee, In Ho Ga, Yong Hwan Kim, Seung Ho Lee

Published in: International Orthopaedics

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Abstract

Purpose

We hypothesized that multiple absorbable screws/K-wires would be effective for native head preservation in comminuted radial head fracture fixation (com-RHFs).

Methods

Seventeen patients who met the inclusion criteria between 2018 and 2020 were included. Radiologic findings indicating proper union and clinical outcomes such as the range of elbow motion, visual analog scale score, and Mayo Elbow Performance Score were assessed prospectively after surgery and at least three years of follow-up.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 4.6 years. Eleven, one, three, and two patients presented with isolated com-RHFs, type 2 (accompanied injury of medial collateral ligament), type 4 (“terrible triad”) fractures, and type 5 posterior olecranon fracture-dislocations, respectively. Union was achieved after a mean of nine weeks postoperatively. The head and shaft angles did not differ significantly from the contralateral normal values (p = 0.778 and 0.872, coronal and sagittal, respectively). At the final follow-up, the mean flexion–extension/pronation-supination arcs were 126.47 ± 4.92°/135.59 ± 10.13°, and thus were significantly different from those on the contralateral side (p < 0.001, both), however the arcs were functional ranges for ordinary daily life. Also, functional status was satisfactory in all individuals. The arthritis grade and extent of heterotrophic ossification were satisfactory in all cases, and there were no serious complications requiring revision surgery.

Conclusions

Absorbable screw/K-wire fixation for com-RHFs is an option before radial head arthroplasty associated with a low complication rate and no need for revision.
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Metadata
Title
Usefulness of multiple bioabsorbable Mg screws/K‑wires for comminuted radial head fractures
Authors
Soo Min Cha
Sang Hyun Lee
In Ho Ga
Yong Hwan Kim
Seung Ho Lee
Publication date
08-05-2024
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
International Orthopaedics
Print ISSN: 0341-2695
Electronic ISSN: 1432-5195
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-024-06208-2