The use of bioabsorbable pins with prolonged degradation periods for fracture fixation has raised concerns about adverse soft
tissue reactions, including seromas, discharging sinuses, or osteolytic changes. We asked whether bioabsorbable pins of self-reinforced
polylactic acid polymer used in radial head fractures resulted in such reactions. We retrospectively reviewed 21 patients
followed a minimum of 36 months (mean, 81 months; range, 36–136 months). There were nine Mason II, 10 Mason III, and two Mason
IV fractures, which were evaluated clinically and radiographically. All fractures healed well with no radiographic signs of
osteolysis. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance score was 93.8 (range, 20–100), which is comparable to the outcome of historical
groups with radial head arthroplasty. The mean range of flexion of the elbow was 9° to 132°, with 79° pronation and 77° supination.
The grip strength of the operated arm was not affected in comparison to the contralateral arm (mean range, 38.6 versus 40.9 kg).
No material-related adverse effects were observed during and beyond the degradation period. Our data suggest concerns about
soft tissue or bony reactions from these materials in radial head fractures are not justified.
Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Each author certifies that he or she has no commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest,
patent/licensing arrangements, etc) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article.
Each author certifies that his or her institution either has waived or does not require approval for the human protocol for
this investigation and that all investigations were conducted in conformity with ethical principles of research.