Objective:

To compare patient-reported pain, function, and return to work outcomes following surgical interventions (ORIF, radial head excision, and RHA) for isolated radial head fractures.

Key Findings:

• Radial head fractures are prevalent, often resulting from falls on outstretched hands.
• Surgical options include ORIF, radial head excision, and RHA, each with distinct advantages and complications.
• Concomitant injuries complicate treatment and outcomes, with a variable incidence reported (10.2% to 39%).
• Patient-reported outcomes for isolated radial head fractures have not been systematically evaluated until this review.

Interpretation:

Understanding patient-reported outcomes is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of surgical interventions for isolated radial head fractures, emphasizing the need for patient-centered care and informing clinical decision-making.

Limitations:

• No evidence-based guidelines currently exist for optimal treatment of displaced radial head fractures.
• Variability in concomitant injuries and their management complicates outcome comparisons, potentially skewing results.

Conclusion:

This review highlights the importance of assessing patient-reported outcomes in surgical management of isolated radial head fractures, aiming to inform better clinical decision-making and suggesting the need for further research.