Radial Head Arthroplasty Understuffing in the Setting of Longitudinal Radioulnar Dissociation: A Case Report.

CASE

We present a case in which underlengthening of the radius allowed proximal migration of the radius and ulnocarpal abutment in a patient with a comminuted radial head fracture and concomitant longitudinal forearm instability.

CONCLUSION

Radial head arthroplasty is a common treatment for comminuted, displaced radial head fractures. Ideally, the dimensions of the radial head implant should match the native anatomy to restore elbow stability and kinematics. Underlengthening the radius by placing a small radial head implant can lead to carpal abutment at the wrist level.