APPLICATION OF MINI-PLATES AND MINI-SCREWS IN TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH RADIAL HEAD FRACTURES.

An article presents an experience of application of compression headless mini-screws (Gerbert’s screws) and mini-plates in treatment of radial head fractures. The authors showed advantages and disadvantages of given methods of treatment in 41 patients. Gerbert’s screws were used in 32 cases and miniplates were applied in 9 patients. Mini-plates in combination with Gerbert’s screws were used in 4 patients. There weren’t noted complications in early postoperative period. Patients (27–84%) with Gerbert’s screws were followed up in terms more than 6 months. Mean score was 91 according to the scale of Mayo Elbow Performance Score. Results of application of mini-plates were followed up in terms more than 6 months in 7 (77%) patients. Mean score of Mayo Elbow Performance Score consisted of 72. Based on the analysis of results, the authors concluded that the application of mini-screws in radial head fractures allowed doctors to obtain a good anatomical and functional result. Osteosynthesis by mini-plates didn’t always support the secure fixation of all fractures due to strictly given positioning on the head of radial bone. In case of osteosynthesis of splintered fractures of Mason type III, it should be reasonable to combine mini-plates and Gerbert’s screws.