Accessibility View
Skip Header
Skip Content
Home / Specialties / Elbow / Radial Head Orif And Replacement

Radial Head ORIF Surgery for Repairing Elbow Fractures

To help you discuss radial head ORIF and replacement surgery as a treatment option for your elbow injury with your orthopedic surgeon, here’s a breakdown of this surgical procedure.

What Is Radial Head ORIF Surgery?

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the radial head is a surgical technique for treating fractures to the radial head of the elbow. Radial head ORIF restores normal anatomy and improves range of motion and function by removing the radial head and replacing it with a prosthesis (known as a radial head replacement).

The non-surgical and surgical treatment options for minor radial head fractures include immobilization, lifestyle modifications, pain management through medication, and surgical fixation using screws.

However, multiple and severe fractures, and/or dislocation of the elbow joint, usually require radial ORIF.

The indications for Radial Head ORIF include:

  • Large articular surface fragments
  • Displaced radial fractures
  • Severe fractures or ligament injuries
  • Bone displacement of greater than 2 mm
  • Mechanical obstruction to forearm rotation

What Are the Advantages of Radial Head ORIF and Replacement?

There are many benefits for radial head ORIF and replacement for healing elbow fractures, including:

  • Allows visibility and direct access to reduce fragments with advanced devices
  • Preservation of soft tissues
  • Minimal damage to blood vessels and nerves
  • Minimal damage to surrounding tissues
  • Minimal blood loss

What Happens Before Radial Head ORIF and Replacement?

Before radial head ORIF and replacement, the patient may undergo the following steps: you may have:

  • Physical exam to inspect blood circulation and nerves affected by the fracture
  • X-ray, CT scan, or MRI scan to assess surrounding structures and broken bones
  • Blood tests
  • Depending on the type of fracture, the patient may be given a tetanus shot if you are not up to date with your immunization
  • A discussion with the orthopedic surgeon about what medications, supplements, foods and beverages to avoid

How Is Radial Head ORIF Performed?

The orthopedic surgeon performs the radial head ORIF according to the following procedure:

  • Make an incision at the side of the elbow and locate the fracture by carefully sliding in between the muscles of the forearm.
  • Clean the cuts from the injury and surfaces of the fractured bone.
  • Reposition the bone fragments into their normal alignment.
  • Secure the fragments of bone in place with wires, screws, pins, or metal plates attached to the outer surface of the bone.
  • Close the incisions using sutures or staples along with sterile dressings to complete the operation.

How Is Radial Head Replacement Performed?

The orthopedic surgeon performs the radial head replacement according to the following procedure:

  • Make an incision at the side of the elbow.
  • Remove all the fragments of the broken bone.
  • Trim the radial neck to receive the prosthesis.
  • Remove the central cavity of the radial body just below the radial neck with an awl.
  • Insert the prosthesis and check for stability and tracking during various movements of the arm.
  • Place the prosthesis into position and suture the incision.

What Happens After Radial Head ORIF and Radial Head Replacement?

The orthopedic surgeon will provide the following post-operative care instructions to promote healing and promote a successful recovery:

  • Use assistive devices such as a sling, cast, or splint to immobilize the bone and allow healing
  • Limit weight-bearing activities
  • Keep the area clean
  • Participate in physical therapy and exercise regimen
  • Take antibiotics to prevent infection
  • Attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress
  • Follow activity restrictions

What Are the Risks and Complications of Radial Head ORIF and Replacement?

As with any surgery, some of the potential risks and complications of open reduction and internal fixation of radial head and replacement may include infection, bleeding, pain, swelling, or damage to the surrounding bone and soft tissues.

Injuries and fractures to the radial head of the elbow are painful, debilitating, and destructive to your overall health and happiness. While there are non-surgical and surgical solutions, major fractures may require more. Let us see if Radial Head ORIF and Replacement is right for you.