Purpose
For fractures requiring operative fixation, the “tripod technique” using headless
compression screws has recently been described as a less invasive alternative to open
reduction and internal fixation with plate and screws. The purpose of this study was
to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the tripod technique for the
treatment of radial head and neck fractures.
Methods
We performed a retrospective chart review of all radial head and neck fractures treated
with the tripod technique at our institution over a 10-year period. Patients with
less than 6 months of follow-up were excluded. Outcomes were evaluated at the latest
follow-up using range of motion measurements and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm,
Shoulder and Hand questionnaire.
Results
We evaluated 13 patients with a mean age of 48 years and average follow-up of 72 months
(range, 21–153 months). All the patients achieved union by 12 weeks after surgery.
The average postoperative Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was
5.9 (range, 0–23). The mean flexion was 139°, and the mean extension was −8°. There
were no major postoperative complications. Five patients had minor complications.
No patients required a reoperation.
Conclusions
The tripod technique is a useful alternative to the traditional method of plate and
screw fixation for unstable radial head and neck fractures.
Type of study/level of evidence
Therapeutic IV.
Key words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 28, 2021
Accepted:
June 23,
2021
Received:
April 8,
2020
Footnotes
No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article.
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. All rights reserved.
