Early excision of the radial head for fracture.

The wrists and elbows of 23 patients were examined at a mean follow-up of 5 years (2-10 years) after excision of the radial head for an isolated fracture. Fourteen elbows and 13 wrists were symptomatic. Proximal migration of the radius was seen in 15 cases; the mean distance of migration being 1.4 mm. Osteoarthritis, mostly mild, was seen in 17 elbows and 14 wrists and limited movement of the elbow was a common finding. Excision of the radial head for fracture had a high complication rate.