Revision/Failed Radial Head Arthroplasty

Indications for radial head arthroplasty include significantly comminuted radial head fractures, radial head fractures with concomitant ligamentous injury, and radial head or neck malunions and nonunions. Contemporary prostheses allow for the restoration of elbow motion while preserving joint stability. Studies have demonstrated favorable clinical outcomes and decreased costs of care following radial head arthroplasty when compared to ORIF. However, complications such as aseptic loosening, stiffness, implant failure, arthritis, and infection have all been reported. This chapter will explore the indications, outcomes, complications of radial head arthroplasty, as well as the techniques and indications for revision radial head arthroplasty.