Abstract
BACKGROUND: Management of radial head fractures around the elbow with open techniques can predispose to edema, postoperative pain, and adhesions. The resultant limitation in elbow range of motion negatively affects functional outcomes. Rehabilitation is then rendered a challenge in a joint with proneness to stiffness. HYPOTHESIS: Arthroscopic percutaneous fixation of Mason type 2 radial head fractures would provide satisfactory radiological and clinical outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: A total of 24 patients diagnosed with isolated Mason type 2 radial head fractures at a single institution between February 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021, received arthroscopic percutaneous fixation by headless screws. Functional evaluation included Mayo Elbow Performance Score and postoperative elbow range of motion measurements. Radiological evaluation was performed using elbow radiographs and computed tomography scans. Patients were evaluated for a minimum of 24 months. RESULTS: This study included 12 male and 12 female participants with a mean age of 37.29 ± 11.93 years. At the end of the follow-up period (mean, 27.75 months; range, 24-32 months), the mean elbow flexion was 140.17° ± 8.21° and the extension deficit was 4.17° ± 3.81°. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score revealed 21 patients with excellent results and 3 patients with good results. All patients returned to preinjury activities at a mean time of 3.1 months (range, 2-6 months) postoperatively. Union was reached in all patients at a mean time of 7.63 weeks (range, 6-10 weeks). No neurological complications or reoperations were reported at the end of the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic fixation was demonstrated to be a valid and valuable technique for managing isolated Mason type 2 radial head fractures. It allowed for accurate reduction without the need for soft tissue dissection, resulting in excellent clinical outcomes.