Anterior dislocation of the radial head in children.

Problems of unilateral isolated radial head dislocation have been reviewed in 28 children. A significant number indicated failure of recognition of the dislocation after injury. Disability due to increasing deformity and instability was consistently noted and indicated surgical reduction. Late reduction required reconstruction of the annular ligament. A modified method of reconstruction using a strip of triceps tendon is described. Good results are recorded in a small number of children in whom this was carried out.