Anatomical study of the proximal end of the radius in adults and its clinical application / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To provide the anatomical basis for treatment of comminuted fractures of the radial head with bending steel miniplates by observations of the proximal end of the radius (PEOTR) in adults and to investigate the effect of its application. Methods The PEOTR and the dynamic relationship between the articular circumference of the radial head and the ulnar radial notch were studied with 32 pairs of specimen of the dried radii and ulnae in adults. From Jan 1988 to Mar 1998, eleven cases of comminuted fractures of the radial head were treated with bending steel miniplates procedure; there were seven males and four females, with an average age of 35 years. According to Mason's grading, 9 cases were classified as Type Ⅲ radial head fractures, 2 cases as Type Ⅳ radial head fractures. Results The average length of the PEOTR was 41.6 mm. The radial neck deviated from the radial shaft at an angle of 164?. Then at the neutral position, the greatest range of pronation and supination of the forearm, the range of contact of radians and the range of non contact radian between the articular circumference of the radial head and the ulnar radial notch were 69?,108?,45? and 138?, respectively. The period of follow up in all cases was 20-38 months. All had bony union, with an average healing time of 8.5 months. Evaluation was done according to the criterion made by Broberg and Morrey. The result was excellent in 6 cases, good in 4 cases, and fair in 1 case. Conclusion The treatment of comminuted fractures of the radial head with bending steel miniplates is a safe and effective method.