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Radial head replacement is surgery to replace the upper end of the radius with an artificial implant. The radial head forms part of the elbow joint and helps support elbow stability and forearm rotation. Replacement may be used when a severe fracture cannot be reliably repaired. The surgeon may also treat associated ligament or bone injuries during the operation.
read more about radial head replacement ...Most small radial head fractures do not need a replacement. Surgery may be considered when the bone is broken into pieces that cannot be put back together securely. The need for an implant also depends on elbow stability and other injuries. Imaging and examination help the surgeon choose between repair and replacement.
The surgeon reaches the elbow through an incision and removes the damaged radial head. An implant is fitted to replace the removed bone and support the joint. Torn ligaments or other injuries may be repaired during the same operation. The team then checks elbow stability and movement.
The arm may be supported in a splint for a period determined by the surgeon. Guided elbow movement commonly begins early enough to help limit stiffness, depending on the associated injuries. Lifting and weight bearing through the arm are restricted during initial healing. Therapy may help restore elbow and forearm motion.
Possible complications include infection, nerve injury, stiffness, and continuing pain. The implant may loosen or cause problems with joint movement over time. Associated ligament or bone injuries can also affect recovery. Follow-up checks the implant and elbow function.
No. The operation replaces the radial head, which is one part of the elbow joint.
No. Less severe fractures may heal without surgery, while some can be repaired with screws or a plate.
The elbow can become stiff after injury and surgery. The surgeon sets a movement plan based on the stability of the repair.
Yes. Another operation may be needed if the implant develops a problem or elbow symptoms persist.
Excision Versus Replacement in Unrepairable Comminuted Fractures of the Radial Head: A Systematic Review of Outcomes and Complications. PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9283616/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Radial Head ORIF and Replacement Salt Lake City. University of Utah Shoulder and Elbow Fellowship. https://www.shoulderandelbowfellowship.med.utah.edu/radial-head-orif-replacemnt-shoulder-elbow-surgeon-salt-lake-city-ut/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Radial Head Replacement. Arm Docs. https://www.armdocs.com/treatment/radial-head-replacement. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Radial Head Replacement for Acute Complex Fractures: What Are the Rate and Risks Factors for Revision or Removal? PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4048424/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Surgical interventions for treating radial head fractures in adults. Cochrane. https://www.cochrane.org/evidence/CD008987_surgical-interventions-treating-radial-head-fractures-adults. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.