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Indications for Radial Head Arthroplasty and Classification of Current Implants

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Elbow Arthroplasty

Abstract

Radial head arthroplasty is indicated in patients with complex pattern of radial head fractures. Restoration of radiocapitellar contact is a key point of the treatment. Capitellum wear due to the use of implant arthroplasty remains a concern. Several systems of classification have been described for radial head fractures, including injuries of bone and ligaments. Prosthetic models for radial head replacement can be divided into (1) silicone prostheses, (2) unipolar and bipolar, (3) monoblock and modular, (4) anatomical and non-anatomical, and (5) cemented and press-fit. Arthroplasty is indicated for Mason type III and IV radial head fractures. The goal of arthroplasty is the restoration of radiocapitellar stability, preservation of range of motion, and preservation of appropriate radial length in patients with complex radial head fractures.

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Correspondence to Giovanni Merolla .

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Merolla, G., Padolino, A., Paladini, P., Porcellini, G. (2020). Indications for Radial Head Arthroplasty and Classification of Current Implants. In: Castoldi, F., Giannicola, G., Rotini, R. (eds) Elbow Arthroplasty . Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-14455-5_22

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-14455-5_22

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