Radial head replacement versus open reduction and internal fixation for comminuted radial head fractures:more advantageous? / 中国组织工程研究

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND:At present, the methods of treating unstable comminuted radial head fractures contain open reduction and internal fixation and metal prosthesis replacement. There were success cases treated by the two methods, but some shortcomings simultaneously existed. OBJECTIVE:To compare the clinical therapeutic effects of replacement of the radial head with metal prosthesis with open reduction and internal fixation for the treatment of unstable comminuted radial head fractures. METHODS:A prospective randomized control ed analysis was performed in 45 cases of unstable comminuted radial head fractures. These cases received open reduction and internal fixation and metal prosthesis replacement. This study compared the Broberg and Morrey elbow joint function score and the incidence of complications after fixation, and performed statistical analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:The subjects were fol owed up for 1-5 years, averagely 2.8 years. According to Broberg and Morrey scores, the average score was 90.1 and the incidence of complications was 13.6%in the prosthesis replacement group. The average score was 76.8 and the incidence of complications was 47.9%in the open reduction. Significant differences were visible between the two groups (P<0.01). Compared with the open reduction group, prosthesis replacement for unstable comminuted radial head fractures obtained better joint function and lower incidence of complications.