Early aseptic loosening of a press-fit radial head prosthesis - A case series of 6 patients.

OBJECTIVE

Radial head arthroplasty (RHA) is the principal treatment option for comminuted radial head (RH) fractures. Here, we present six cases of failed RHA using a modular monopolar press-fit RHA that was subsequently withdrawn from the market because it was associated with a high incidence of loosening.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected data from six patients who had received Radial Head Prothesis SystemTM at our centre between July 2015 and June 2016. The average follow-up was 40 months.

RESULTS

Aseptic loosening of the stem affected five (83%) of the six RHA. Four of these were symptomatic and RHA removal was performed. For these patients, the pain subsided and their elbow range of motion (ROM) improved.

CONCLUSION

While the ideal design for an RHA is still debatable, RHA is an efficient treatment option that restores elbow stability and function after a comminuted RH fracture. Importantly, removal of the prosthesis is an effective remedy following RHA associated elbow pain and decreased ROM.