Incidence and analysis of simultaneous bilateral radial head and neck fractures at a level I trauma center.

Background: Reviewing the current literature, very few reports are given on simultaneous bilateral radial head and neck fractures. There are no reports on this entity's incidence. Thus, the purpose of this study was to analyze the incidence and outcome of simultaneous bilateral radial head fractures.

Methods: This study reviewed the clinical records and trauma database of this Level I Trauma Center and identified all adult patients with fractures of the radial head or neck who were admitted between 1992 and 2007. From a database of 2,296 adult trauma victims with radial head or neck fractures, an analysis of clinical records revealed 34 patients suffering from simultaneous bilateral injuries (68 fractures) being classified according to Mason. For clinical examination, range of motion, local pain, and activities of daily living were assessed. To quantify the clinical results, the patients were asked to grade their functional outcome according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).

Results: The incidence of simultaneous bilateral fractures was 1.48%. Nonoperative treatment was performed in 86.8% (n = 59) of the cases. Solid bony union was achieved in all patients. Full satisfaction concerning treatment was achieved in 97% of the patients. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score showed an overall functional outcome score of 97.1.

Discussion: Reviewing the literature, the frequency of this injury was assessed for the first time. An incidence of 1.48% of all radial head fractures was explored. Our material was representative and included 2,296 injuries covering a 15-year period.