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. 2008 May;466(5):1217-24.
doi: 10.1007/s11999-008-0134-6. Epub 2008 Mar 4.

Late results of absorbable pin fixation in the treatment of radial head fractures

Panagiotis K Givissis  1 , Panagiotis D Symeonidis, Konstantinos T Ditsios, Panagiotis S Dionellis, Anastasios G Christodoulou
Affiliations

Late results of absorbable pin fixation in the treatment of radial head fractures

Panagiotis K Givissis et al. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2008 May.

Abstract

The use of bioabsorbable pins with prolonged degradation periods for fracture fixation has raised concerns about adverse soft tissue reactions, including seromas, discharging sinuses, or osteolytic changes. We asked whether bioabsorbable pins of self-reinforced polylactic acid polymer used in radial head fractures resulted in such reactions. We retrospectively reviewed 21 patients followed a minimum of 36 months (mean, 81 months; range, 36-136 months). There were nine Mason II, 10 Mason III, and two Mason IV fractures, which were evaluated clinically and radiographically. All fractures healed well with no radiographic signs of osteolysis. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance score was 93.8 (range, 20-100), which is comparable to the outcome of historical groups with radial head arthroplasty. The mean range of flexion of the elbow was 9 degrees to 132 degrees , with 79 degrees pronation and 77 degrees supination. The grip strength of the operated arm was not affected in comparison to the contralateral arm (mean range, 38.6 versus 40.9 kg). No material-related adverse effects were observed during and beyond the degradation period. Our data suggest concerns about soft tissue or bony reactions from these materials in radial head fractures are not justified.

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Figures

Fig. 1A–B
Fig. 1A–B
(A) This intraoperative figure shows drilling of the radial head after reduction of the fracture. (B) The SR-PLLA SmartPin® is being inserted in the radial head.
Fig. 2A–D
Fig. 2A–D
(A) An anteroposterior radiograph shows a Mason Type III fracture of the radial head. (B) The lateral radiograph of the same patient shows the fracture’s comminution. (C) A postoperative radiograph obtained at the final followup shows successful reconstruction of the radial head. (D) A postoperative lateral radiograph shows fracture union and satisfactory alignment of the radiohumeral joint.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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