Introduction

The action of the radial head in the stability of the elbow is currently admitted. Its conservation is not always possible in complex fractures. The association with a posterolateral dislocation of the elbow leads to a higher risk of instability of the elbow joint and also at a longer term to degenerative changes. Some authors recommend the use of metallic radial head implant, acting as a spacer. The results seems encouraging but should the resection arthroplasty associated with the repair of the medial collateral ligament be abandoned?

Purpose of the study: Although the role of the radial head is clearly established regarding elbow stability, it cannot always be preserved after complex fractures. Association with a posteriolateral dislocation, besides the risk of short-term recurrent dislocation, raises the problem of long-term osteoarthritic degeneration. Certain authors advocate a metal prosthesis which works like a spacer in lieu of the head; their mid-term results have been encouraging, but should complete resection with suture of the medial ligament plane be ruled out definitively?

Material and methods: We reviewed 13 files of patients who had had an initial resection of the radial head after trauma. For seven of these patients, there was an associated dislocation; the medial ligament structures were sutured. All patients were reviewed with mean 13 years follow-up (5–15) and evaluated clinically with the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon (ASES) system to establish the Mayo Clinic Elbow Performance (MCEP) score. Osteoarthritis of the ulnar trochlea was analysed on the plain x-rays, completed by an axial view, using the Morrey radiographic classification of 4 stages.

Results: There were not cases of recurrent dislocation. According to the Broberg and Morrey index, 92% of patients had good outcome with total resumption of occupational activities; there was no difference between patients with and without dislocation. All patients developed grade 1 or 2 osteoarthritis, with very good clinical tolerance. All were satisfied with their operation despite efforts to spare joint movements.

Discussion: The studies evaluating the use of radial head prostheses have reported similar findings for functional outcome. Radiographic degeneration of the ulnar trochlea is also comparable. Immediate rehabilitation is necessary to prevent loss of range of motion and warrants surgery to stabilize the joint as wells as possible use of an adapted dynamic orthesis.

Conclusion: Resection of the radial head without prosthetic reconstruction remains a reasonable option when the head cannot be saved. Associated dislocation implies repair of the medical collateral ligament. At long-term, the functional impairment is minimal despite the moderate osteoarthritis; the problematic of implant survival is avoided.