Purpose: Failure after radial head arthroplasty is uncommon, but clinically significant.
Treatment for failure may involve implant removal. We describe fourteen
patients who underwent implant removal after failed radial head arthroplasty. Methods: A retrospective review was performed to determine the cause of failure and
clinical data were prospectively collected. Results: At mean follow up
of 38 months the mean VAS for pain score was 3.0 and the mean DASH score was
40.5. The mean MEPS was 69. All patients demonstrated improved elbow range of
motion. Mean elbow flexion at final follow up was 124° to an average extension
deficit of 25°. Fifty percent of patients exhibited clinical symptoms of
cubital tunnel syndrome. Three patients required additional surgery after
implant removal. Conclusions: Implant removal for failed radial head
arthroplasty improves range of motion and demonstrates acceptable outcomes at
intermediate-term follow up. However, 50% of patients developed cubital tunnel
syndrome and 21% required revision surgery.
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