Early range of motion results in good elbow function following conservative treatment of non-displaced radial head fractures

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the range of motion (ROM), elbow function and predictors for good elbow function after conservative treatment of non-displaced radial head fractures.

Material and methods: All patients with non-displaced radial head fractures (displacement < 2 mm), that were diagnosed between January 1st 2017 and December 31st 2021 in a level I trauma center, were included in this retrospective case series and the charts were evaluated for ROM and elbow function. Elbow function was categorized as "good" or "bad" depending on the ROM measured defined by Morrey et al. Overall, 73 patients (33 male, 40 female) with an average age of 38 years (+/- 13 years) could be included.

Results: Conservative treatment had good clinical results for ROM and elbow function. After 6 weeks mean flexion was 131° (SD 13°), extension 8° (SD 7°), Pronation 83° (SD 11°) and Supination 83° (SD 13). Patients with a good elbow function after one week showed a good elbow function after completing the treatment.

Conclusions: A clinical assessment after one week should always be performed and the study showed that it is a good predictor for good elbow function. In cases of bad elbow function further controls should be considered.