Resorbable implants and their use exemplified by fracture of the head of the radius

First a short survey of the variety of experiments concerning absorbable implants is given. The result of those experiments, especially with large implants are still quite unsatisfactory. For small osteosynthesis the development of Polydioxanon-Pins seems to open new perspectives of therapy. Also some selected indications in the field of hand surgery as well as maxillary surgery are mentioned. Promising characteristics of PDS-Pins, such as gentle application, complete absorbability, no late infections and no removal of metal plates, made us implant these pins in eight patients aged 35 to 58 suffering from radial head fractures (type Ib and Ic according to Vogt). Early functional treatment showed very good results. Two exemplary cases are illustrated.