Silicone radial head prosthesis fracture

Abstract

The radial head is an important secondary stabilizer of the elbow and can bear up to 60% of the load transmitted from the forearm. Replacement of the radial head is advised in cases in which the extent of ligamentous injury calls for this secondary stabilizing function and it is not possible to reconstruct the radial head. The inability of a silicone radial head to resist compressive loads or valgus stress is evidence that the implant does not restore normal radiocapitellar load transmission, which is believed to be imperative for normal elbow function.