Cementless fixation of radial head implants is affected by implant stem geometry: an in vitro study.

Background: Metal radial head implants are widely used for the management of unreconstructible fractures. However, the effect of implant stem design on initial fixation and stability is unknown. This study determined the effects of radial head stem geometry on the initial stability of the uncemented implant.

The effect of suture fixation of type I coronoid fractures on the kinematics and stability of the elbow with and without medial collateral ligament repair.

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of suture repair of type 1 coronoid fractures on elbow kinematics in ligamentously intact and medial collateral ligament (MCL)-deficient elbows. Cadaveric testing was performed in stable and MCL-deficient elbows with radial head arthroplasty and with the coronoid intact, with the coronoid fractured, and after suture repair. Ulna versus humerus angulation was measured during active motion.

The effect of coronoid fractures on elbow kinematics and stability.

Background: Coronoid fractures often occur in the setting of more complex elbow trauma. Little is known about the influence of coronoid fracture size on elbow kinematics, particularly in the setting of concomitant ligament injuries. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of coronoid fractures on elbow kinematics and stability in ligamentously intact and medial collateral ligament deficient elbows and to determine the effect of forearm position on elbow stability in the setting of coronoid fracture.

Kinematics and stability of the fractured and implant-reconstructed radial head.

Controversy exists as to the optimal management of radial head fractures. Biomechanical studies have been conducted to quantify elbow stability for simulated wedge fractures, head excision, and head replacement, with and without the integrity of the collateral ligaments. Our in vitro studies have demonstrated that in the ligamentously intact elbow, kinematics and stability are slightly altered with simulated depressed wedge fractures up to 120 degrees of the radial head, markedly altered with head resection, and improved after radial head replacement.