The internal fixation of a transverse shear fracture through the radial head of a 31-year-old female is described. This unusual fracture pattern has not been previously described in the literature and presented an operative challenge. A novel technique was employed using suture anchors to securely re-attach the sheared fragment of bone without damaging the articular surface of the radial head. The patient made a full recovery with restoration of a full range of motion at the elbow, and radiological evidence of union with no signs of avascular necrosis at 6 months.
MasonML. Some observations on fractures of the head of the radius with a review of one hundred cases.Br J Surg1954; 42: 123.
2.
BrobergMA, MorreyBF. Results of treatment of fracture-dislocations of the elbow.Clin Orthop Relat Res1987; 216: 109–19.
3.
HotchkissRN, WellandAJ. Valgus stability of the elbow.J Orthop Res1987; 5: 72–7.
4.
GuptaGG, LucasG., HahnDL. Biomechanical and computer analysis of radial head prostheses.J Shoulder Elbow Surg1997; 6: 37–48.
5.
RingD., QuinteroJ., JupiterJB. Open reduction and internal fixation of fractures of the radial head.J Bone Joint Surg Am2002; 84A: 1811–15.
6.
KoslowskyTC, MaderK., DargelJ.. Reconstruction of a Mason type-III fracture of the radial head using four different fixation techniques. An experimental study.J Bone Joint Surg Br2007; 89: 1545–50.
