Recurrent radial head subluxation treated with annular ligament reconstruction. A case report and follow-up study

Abstract

Radial head subluxation secondary to traumatic rupture of the annular ligament has been well described in the literature. Annular ligament reconstruction utilizing fascia lata graft has been proposed and described, but no follow-up reports have been published. A 21-year-old man was treated by annular ligament reconstruction for recurrent radial head subluxation with a good result and no recurrent subluxation at more than four years postoperatively. The operative technique is as follows: a fascia lata graft 1.5 x 12 cm was anchored through a drill hole in the posterolateral ulna, passed around the radial neck, and sutured back onto itself to reconstruct an annular ligament.