Radial Head Fractures—Advanced Techniques in Surgical Management and Rehabilitation

Radial head fractures are the most common fractures in the elbow, and the treatment of nondisplaced fractures is often straightforward. However, radial head fractures with concurrent injury to the elbow stabilizers may require complex treatment and therapy that are targeted at specifically restoring elbow stability. This treatment of complex radial head fractures has recently improved because of long-term follow-up studies, increased biomechanical research on elbow stability, and improved surgical techniques. With an open line of communication between the surgeon and the therapist, an appropriate therapy plan can be initiated to protect both simple and complex injuries. The therapist should have knowledge of specific tissue healing and treatment techniques, and the patient must be educated in possible outcomes, safe arcs of motions, positioning, and proper splint use. This article summarizes current advanced techniques in the surgical management and rehabilitation of radial head fractures. Comprehensive protocols for decision making and treatment are introduced for both simple and complex radial head fractures.