Abstract
The purpose of this experimental study is to present the design and biomechanical characteristics of bipolar polyethylene radial head prostheses type KPS (CHM â Poland), as well as to evaluate their use in comminuted fractures type Mason III associated with ligament injuries. We retrospectively evaluated 7 patients with 7 complex radial head fractures with an average age of 38.5 years. The prostheses were implanted through a lateral Kocher approach and patients immediately began the rehabilitation of the elbow. The functional results according to the MEPS score (Mayo Elbow Performance Score) were excellent in 3 cases and good in 4 cases, without stem loosening or residual instability of the elbow. Due to the overwhelming advantages of this bipolar prosthesis (better joint tracking and easier implantation technique) and its very good functional results, the authors recommend this type of arthroplasty in posttraumatic elbow instability.
Keywords: bipolar radial head prosthesis; ligament injuries; elbow instability; polyethylene