DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2013.v01i06.0103

Pages: 1148-1154

Introduction: Fractures of the radial head constitute approximately one-third of all elbow fractures. Management of Mason type III fractures is equally controversial, with management options including conservative management, simple excision, prosthetic implant replacement, and open reduction and internal fixation. With improvised surgical procedures and availability of highly sophisticated implants and instruments, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of these fractures has become more common. However, the associated complications and outcome of elbow function for both radial head excision and ORIF in managing Mason type II and type III fractures remain yet to be systematically evaluated. Methods: A retrospective study was initiated in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2011 to December 2012. The study sample included 24 patients with age group ranging from 20 to 66 years and already diagnosed with acute closed uncomplicated Mason type II and type III fractures of radial head. Equal number (n=12) of males and females were selected. Results: The study comprised of 24 patients with Mason type II and type III acute fractures of the radial head. Their age group ranged from 20 to 66 years. They were grouped into two categories viz., 12 patients who had their radial heads removed (Group I) and 12 patients who had ORIF with Herbert screws/ mini-plates (Group II). During final follow-up, range of motion, radiographic and complications data were collected from patients and functional outcome measures of the elbow were estimated. The rating system of Broberg and Morrey was used to evaluate elbow function. It was observed that the functional rating score averaged 84 points in Group I and 96 points in Group II. Hence, we conclude that the patients who received ORIF had better functional outcome than those who received excision. After radial head excision, the complications recorded we