Radial head excision

In unreconstructable radial head fractures, the excision is indicated:

• in isolated radial head fracture
• in low energy fracture
• in radial head fracture without associated fracture or ligament injury

Radial head excision can produce instability of elbow or forearm (Essex-Lopresti lesion). Thus, it is contraindicated when the elbow joint is unstable (eg, coronoid fracture and / or collateral ligament rupture), or when the interosseous membrane and DRUJ have been injured.

This procedure is normally performed with the patient in a supine position for lateral access.

For this procedure a lateral approach is normally used.

Carefully remove all radial head fragments without further damage to the annular ligament.

Pearl: Reconstruct the radial head on a side-table to make sure that all fragments have been removed from the joint.

Smoothen the radial neck edges with the help of a small rongeur.

Do not unnecessarily further resect the neck.

If the annular ligament is ruptured, repair it with non-absorbable sutures. Check elbow range of motion in flexion, extension, pronation and supination. Check elbow stability.

Intraoperative C-arm evaluation is advisable to look for remaining fragments and alignment (as shown in the X-ray).

Also check the wrist with a C-arm and compare to the contralateral side to rule out radial shortening. If this is present it should be corrected with a radial head prosthesis.