[Results of modern osteosynthesis procedures in fractures of the radial head--are conservative therapy, bone pin osteosynthesis or primary resection still allowed?].

In a retrospective study, we evaluated the outcome of 38 patients who underwent open reduction internal fixation for displaced radial head fractures. We used resorbable material, as well as titanium implants which need no hardware removal. Our results were 84% good, 6% satisfying and 10% unsatisfying. The latter were due to more severe damage to the elbow joint.