Der Unfallchirurg
-
We report our results after primary implantation of 30 radial head prostheses in a retrospective study from 1978 to 1996. If there was intraoperatively a remaining instability of the elbow after resection of the radial head, we implanted a prosthesis. The average age of our patients was 40.7 years. ⋯ The implant had to be removed in three (10%) patients (2 incorrect implantations, one broken prosthesis). To conclude, the primary implantation of a radial head prosthesis after a strict indication improves the clinical benefit for the patient. A correct surgical technique avoids unnecessary complications.