Request an Appointment or Give us a call
What is ORIF of the Radial Head?
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) of the radial head is a surgical procedure used to repair fractures of the radial head, the upper part of the radius bone located at the elbow joint. The radial head helps stabilize the elbow and allows smooth forearm rotation. When fractured, it can cause pain, stiffness, and instability. ORIF restores the bone’s normal alignment and stability by repositioning the broken fragments (open reduction) and securing them with screws or plates (internal fixation).
When is ORIF Radial Head Recommended?
ORIF of the radial head is typically recommended for patients who:
- Have displaced or multi-fragmented fractures that cannot heal properly without surgery
- Experience elbow instability or loss of motion due to the fracture
- Have associated injuries, such as ligament tears or dislocation
- Are active individuals who need to restore full strength and range of motion
- Have failed non-surgical treatment or continued pain despite immobilization
How is ORIF Radial Head Performed?
The procedure is performed under regional or general anesthesia. A small incision is made on the outer side of the elbow to access the fractured radial head. The surgeon carefully repositions the bone fragments into their correct alignment and secures them with screws, plates, or pins to stabilize the joint. In some cases, small fragments that cannot be repaired may be removed, or partial replacement may be considered. The incision is then closed, and the arm is placed in a protective splint.
What to Expect during Recovery after ORIF Radial Head?
After surgery, the elbow is immobilized for a short period to allow initial healing. Physical therapy typically begins within a few weeks to restore motion and prevent stiffness. Light activities may resume after 6–8 weeks, while full recovery and return to sports or heavy work generally occur within 3–6 months, depending on the fracture’s complexity and rehabilitation progress.
What are the Risks of ORIF Radial Head?
Potential risks include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Stiffness or limited range of motion
- Hardware irritation or need for later removal
- Nonunion or malunion of the fracture
What are the Benefits of ORIF Radial Head?
The main benefits include:
- Stable fixation allowing early elbow movement
- Restoration of joint alignment and function
- Prevention of long-term stiffness and instability
- Reduced risk of post-traumatic arthritis
- Faster return to normal activities and strength
If you wish to be advised on the most appropriate treatment, please call to schedule an appointment or click to request an appointment online.
