Head-to-neck screw fixation and radial head arthroplasty result in similar postoperative outcomes for low-comminuted radial head fractures with neck involvement.

Background: Fixation of radial head fractures with neck involvement presents challenges. It remains unclear whether the outcomes of head-to-neck screw fixation are similar to those of arthroplasty in this scenario. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate the clinical outcomes of these two methods for treating such fractures.

Methods: Demographic data, fracture type, number of fragments, and concomitant injuries were recorded. Range of motion, Visual Analogue Scale for pain, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand at three-year follow-up, complications, and reintervention were compared.

Results: A total of 14 patients underwent fixation with head-to-neck screws, and 15 an arthroplasty. Baseline characteristics between groups were similar ( > .05). Satisfactory range of motion (arc > 100°) was achieved in nine patients (64%) in the fixation group, and eight patients (53%) in the arthroplasty group ( = .55). The mean Visual Analogue Scale, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand were 1.2 ± 1.2, 91.7 ± 10.7, and 9.1 ± 1, respectively, ( = .651,  = .651, and  = .155). Three patients (21%) in the fixation group underwent a reintervention and three (20%) in the arthroplasty group (= .639).

Discussion: Head-to-neck screw fixation and radial head arthroplasty result in similar postoperative outcomes for low-comminuted radial head fractures with neck involvement.