Treatment and Outcomes of Radial Head and Neck Fractures with the "Tripod Technique": A Case Series

Abstract

Background: Fractures of the radial head and neck are the most common elbow fractures, which can cause elbow dysfunction and reduced quality of life (QOL). The "tripod technique" is a new, less invasive method for fixing these fractures. The objective of this study was to assess the functional outcomes of tripod technique for treatment of radial head and neck fractures.

Methods: This case series was performed on eight patients with radial head and neck fractures who were admitted to Taleghani Hospital in Tehran City, Iran, between 2021-2023, and treated with the tripod technique by a single surgeon. Patients were evaluated for demographic factors, type of trauma, fracture type, functional outcomes [Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score and Broberg and Morrey score], and surgical complications.

Results: Eight patients with median age of 40 (range: 27-57 years) were evaluated radiographically and clinically 12 months post- surgery. All fractures had healed without problems. The median DASH score was 11 (range: 11-13), and the Broberg and Morrey score was 99 (range: 90-100). The median of supination was 89° (range: 75°-90°), pronation was 89° (range: 30°-90°), extension lag was -4° (range: -35°-0°), and flexion was 139° (range: 130°-142°). Only one case of ulnar hypoesthesia was reported. No reoperations were performed.

Conclusion: In this limited case series, the tripod technique demonstrated promising functional and radiological outcomes with minimal complications as a minimally-invasive approach for radial head and neck fractures; however, studies with larger patient cohorts are needed to confirm its safety and efficacy