Radial Head Fracuter : Adults

         Radial head is responsible for 30% of the elbow stability. Fractures of the radial head are quiet common in adults. Most of these fracture can be managed conservatively in a above elbow cast without any major functional impairment. Those fractures that make the radial head oval enough to obstruct the elbow movement are need to be treated surgically.
&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp Mason classified fractures of the radial head into following types:-

1. Type I : Undispalced segmental (margianal) fracture.
2. Type II : Dispalced segmental fracture .
3. Type III : Communited fracture.
4. Type IV : Fracture associated with posterior dislocation of elbow .

Indicaton of surgery :
&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp Some type of fractures of the radial head are not compatible with conservative management and cause much functional impairment if conserved . Such types require surgery :-

1. Fractures with gross comminution of the head an disc neck .
2. Fracture margin involving more than 1/3rd of the articular surface.
3. Fracture into the proximal radioulnar joint .
4. Loose fragments in the elbow joint .
5. Radial neck fractures with angulation enough to interfere with the rotation .

Surgery :
    If surgery is indicated then excision is the treatment of choice