Intra-articular Distal Humerus Fractures Research Articles

Plate fixation for management of humerus fractures

Proximal humerus, humeral shaft, and distal humerus fractures are all common adult fractures, and often occur in older patients. While the treatment of proximal humerus fractures remains controversial, certain fractures benefit from plate fixation such as fracture-dislocations and head-split fractures. When plate fixation is chosen, anatomic reduction and restoration of the medial calcar are important for successful results. Further research is required to minimize complications and determine the optimal surgical candidates for plate fixation. Humeral shaft fractures are generally treated non-operatively. However, certain shaft fractures warrant plate fixation, such as open fractures, those with associated forearm fractures, and those in poly-trauma patients. Choice of surgical approach and plate depends on the location and type of the fracture. The majority of intra-articular distal humerus fractures should be treated with plate fixation. Dual plating is generally accepted as the gold standard treatment, while the optimal surgical approach and plate configuration requires more research.

A prospective study of functional outcome in intra articular distal humerus fracture treated with dual plating

Background: In adults, distal humerus fractures are uncommon and intra-articular, oftenly involve both the medial and lateral columns. Open reduction and surgical fixation with plating gives good results. The aim of this study is to evaluate clinical outcome in intra articular distal humerus fractures treated with dual plating and evaluate the intermediate term results (minimum follow up of two years) of communited intra-articular distal humerus fractures treated with bicolumnar plating with or without olecranon osteotomy in elderly Indian population. Methods: This is a prospective type of study of 20 cases of supracondylar fracture humerus with inter condylar extension treated surgically with dual plating which were admitted to Jaya Aarogya Hospital & Trauma Center, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, between 2015 to 2016. All the patients of supra condylar fracture distal humerus with age between 18 to 60 years with medical fitness for surgery were included in the study. Results: The mean age of the patient was 40±2 years, 12(60%) cases were males, and 8(40%) cases were females. Right sided involvement was more frequent in the present study 13(65%) cases. 14(70%) cases sustained fracture due to road traffic accident, 06(30%) cases had a domestic fall. The average duration of surgery was 94±10 mins. The average duration of the radiological union was 14±06 weeks in 12(60%) cases, 15±04 weeks in 5 (25%) cases, 19±05 weeks in 3 (15%) cases. The outcome was calculated using the ASES and DASH scores. The American shoulder and elbow surgeons score showed excellent in 5 (25%) good in 11 (55%) fair in 4(20%) and no poor outcome. Conclusions: For good functional results, precise preoperative planning, adequate surgical approach, anatomical inter fragmentary stabilization, medial-post erolateral plating, and early post-operative physiotherapy help in restoring painless and functional elbow for distal humeral intra-articular fractures. This step-by-step approach results in satisfactory functional results.

Outcome of dual column fixation for intra articular distal humerus fracture

Introduction: In young adults, most distal humerus fracture occurs from high energy trauma, sideswipe injuries, road traffic accidents, fall from height, and gunshot wounds. and also it follows a bimodal age distribution (1). Most distal humerus fractures are intra-articular and involve both the medial and lateral columns Aim: To evaluate functional and radiological outcome of patients treated with bicolumn fixation with LCP in intra-articular distal humerus fractures. Materials and Methods: Our study is a prospective study in which we selected 20 cased remdomly with distal humerus fracture with intraarticular extension and treated with open reduction and internal fixation with dual plating. Results: Union was achieved in all cases with in study period. There was no case of non-union, elbow stiffness occurred in one patient. Conclusions: Proper functioning of elbow joint depends on anatomical reduction and good fixation of intraarticular fracture with dual LCP and early mobilization so that mobilization of elbow should be started as early as possible after fracture fixation.

Intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus-a review of the current practice.

Intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus are complex injuries that can considerably limit elbow function if not treated appropriately. Surgical management is indicated for most intra-articular distal humerus fractures with the goal of restoring elbow range of motion and function. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plates and screws has been the preferred surgical option. Double plating is recommended for bicolumnar fractures and plates can be applied either parallel or orthogonal to each other. Surgical approach for ORIF of the distal humerus can be performed through an olecranon osteotomy, but other approaches that preserve the olecranon are also in use, such as the triceps-reflecting, triceps-splitting, paratricipital, and triceps-reflecting anconeus pedicle approach. The ulnar nerve is identified during the approach, followed by either in situ decompression or anterior transposition. Elbow arthroplasty has also emerged as a viable alternative to ORIF for fixation of these fractures in elderly patients with poor bone quality.

Evaluation of Functional Outcomes of Intra-articular Fractures of Distal Humerus by Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

Evaluation of Functional Outcomes of Intra-articular Fractures of Distal Humerus by Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

Adolescent Distal Humerus Fractures: ORIF Versus CRPP.

Although supracondylar humerus fractures are common in young children, the incidence in adolescents is much lower. As a result, there is a paucity of literature to guide treatment. The purpose of this study was to review the treatment and outcomes for a consecutive series of distal humerus fractures in adolescents and to compare outcomes between patients treated with percutaneous skeletal fixation and those treated with open reduction and fixation. A retrospective review of patients 10 to 17 years of age who underwent surgical treatment for a distal humerus fracture from 2005 to 2014 was performed. Patients with medial epicondyle fractures and those with insufficient follow-up to document union or return of motion were excluded. Medical records were reviewed to collect demographic data as well as operative approach and method of fixation. Clinical outcomes included range of motion, time to maximum motion, and complications [nerve dysfunction, heterotopic ossification (HO), need for secondary surgery]. Radiographs were reviewed to determine time to union as well as coronal and sagittal alignment. One hundred eighteen adolescents with displaced distal humerus fractures were identified. Eighty-one met inclusion criteria. Forty-four of these were classified as extra-articular [Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) 13-A], and 37 were intra-articular fractures (10 OTA 13-B and 27 OTA 13-C).Although not statistically significant, closed treatment with percutaneous fixation of extra-articular fractures resulted in greater flexion-extension arc of motion at final follow-up (128 vs. 119 degrees, P=0.17) and demonstrated more rapid return of motion (2.8 vs. 3.9 mo, P=0.05) when compared with open treatment despite a longer duration of immobilization and less formal physical therapy. Complications such as HO (P=0.05), nerve dysfunction (P=0.02), and secondary surgery (P=0.001) were more common in the open treatment group.Closed treatment with percutaneous fixation of intra-articular fractures was performed in younger patients of similar size (12.8 vs. 14.4 y, P<0.01; 154 vs. 142 lbs, P=0.5). There were no significant differences between groups in regard to outcomes or complications. There were trends toward increased frequency of HO, nerve dysfunction, and secondary surgery in the open treatment group.Patients with intra-articular fractures were older (14.2 vs. 11.5 y, P<0.001) and heavier (144 vs. 94 lbs, P<0.001) than patients with extra-articular fractures and were more likely to be treated open (74% vs. 11%, P<0.001). Extra-articular fractures demonstrated a greater total arc of motion (126 vs. 118 degrees, P=0.04) at final follow-up despite longer duration of immobilization (23 vs. 15 d, P=0.002), and less physical therapy (27% vs. 73%, P<0.001). Radiographic carrying angle (16.6 vs. 22.3 degrees, P=0.08) and anterior humeral line (95% vs. 81%, P=0.07) trended toward more anatomic alignment in the extra-articular group. Secondary surgery was more common after intra-articular fracture (24% vs. 7%, P=0.03). Closed reduction and pinning of extra-articular distal humerus fractures in adolescents resulted in predictable clinical and radiographic outcomes and allowed for earlier return of motion and fewer complications when compared with open treatment. Intra-articular distal humerus fractures occur more frequently in older adolescents and are more likely to require open reduction and internal fixation to obtain joint congruity. Patients with intra-articular injuries should be cautioned that regaining full elbow motion may be more difficult, and there is an increased risk for complications and need for additional surgery. Closed reduction and percutaneous fixation of intra-articular injuries appears to be a reasonable option in select patients. Level III-retrospective comparative study.

Evaluation of results of surgical management of closed intra-articular fractures of distal end Humerus

Evaluation of results of surgical management of closed intra-articular fractures of distal end Humerus

Bicolumnar 90–90 plating of AO 13C type fractures

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate functional results and complication rate of patients who underwent medial-dorsolateral plating for intra-articular distal humeral fracture (Müller AO type 13C). MethodsTwenty-four patients (14 men, 10 women; mean age: 47 years) with AO type 13C distal humerus fracture were included in the study. Mean follow-up time was 28 months. Nine patients were in 13C1 subgroup, according to AO classification system, 11 patients were categorized as 13C2, and 4 patients were 13C3. Final follow-up assessment of outcomes included Broberg and Morrey radiological criteria; Mayo Elbow Performance Score, disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Outcome Measure, score based on Jupiter criteria; and range of motion (ROM) values. ResultsThe mean carrying angle of operated elbows was 11.37° (range: 0-20°). According to Broberg and Morrey radiological criteria, 14 patients, had radiologically normal elbow, 4 patients had mild change, 3 patients had moderate change, and 3 patients had severe radiological change. Mean DASH score was 21.91 (range: 0-50), and mean Mayo rating was 83.37 (range: 55-100). Jupiter criteria evaluation revealed excellent results in 10 cases, good in 12, and fair results in 2. One patient with fair result had open fracture, and the other had previous hemiparesis in the same extremity. There was no instance of nonunion observed at follow-up. ConclusionOsteosynthesis with medial-dorsolateral plating is a safe and effective method for the treatment of intra-articular fractures of distal humerus. Level of evidenceLevel IV, Therapeutic study.

WITHDRAWN: Functional outcomes of type C distal humerus fractures in adults fixed by orthogonal double plating

Background: Surgical reconstruction of intra-articular distal humerus fractures imposes a challenge to even experienced surgeons as it is complicated by anatomy of elbow, small area of fixation, associated comminution, and osteopenia of articular surfaces. Single-column plating does not provide stable construct for comminuted distal humerus fractures as compared to the double-column plating methods. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional outcomes, technical difficulties, complications, and patients' satisfactions after orthogonal double plating. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective analytical study of 54 patients with Type C distal humerus fractures fixed with orthogonal plating from 2012 to 2016. Time to unite the fractures and functional outcomes along with other major and minor complications were noted. Results: Seven (13%) fractures were C1, 12 (22.2%) were C2, and 35 (64.8%) were C3 types according to the AO classification. Major complications were noted in 5 patients and minor complications in 19 patients. Eleven (20.4%) patients were rated as excellent, 33 (61.1%) rated as good, 7 (12.9%) rated as fair, and 3 (5.6%) rated as poor. Mayo Elbow Performance Score in overall patients (n = 54) was 81.62 ± 10.28, C1/C2 subgroup (n = 19) was 89.05 ± 60, and C3 subgroup was 77.60 ± 9.91 (P = 0.627). Similarly, the Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand Score in overall patients was 17.96 ± 15.67, C1/C2 subgroup was 8.78 ± 7.07, and C3 subgroup was 22.82 ± 16.78 (P = 0.285). Conclusion: Orthogonal dual-plate configurations can provide anatomical reconstruction and stable fixation of Type C intra-articular distal humeral fractures and allow early mobilization of the elbow after surgery; however, a significant number of patients do not satisfy after surgery.

Clinico-radiological Outcome Analysis of Parallel Plating with Perpendicular Plating in Distal Humeral Intra-articular Fractures: Prospective Randomised Study.

The distal humeral fractures are common fractures of upper limb and are difficult to treat. These fractures, if left untreated or inadequately treated, leads to poor outcomes. Management of distal humeral fractures are pertained to many controversies and one among them is position of plates. To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes in patients with intra-articular distal humerus fractures, treated using parallel and perpendicular double plating methods. A total of 38 patients with distal humerus fractures, 20 in perpendicular plating group (group A) and 18 in parallel plating group (group B), were included in this prospective randomised study. At each follow up patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically for union and the outcomes were measured in terms of Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) consisting of pain intensity, range of motion, stability and function. MEP score greater than 90 is considered as excellent; Score 75 to 89 is good; Score 60 to 74 is fair and Score less than 60 is poor. In our study, 15 patients (75%) in group A, and 13 patients (72.22%) in group B achieved excellent results. Two patients (10%) in group A and 4 patients (22.22%) in group B attained good results. Complications developed in 2 patients in each groups. No significant differences were found between the clinical outcomes of the two plating methods. Neither of the plating techniques are superior to the other, as inferred from the insignificant differences in bony union, elbow function and complications between the two plating techniques.

A muscle sparing posterior approach to the elbow joint for total elbow arthroplasty

We describe a muscle sparing approach in which the triceps is elevated without injuring the muscle or disturbing its insertion. The entire extensor mechanism is preserved in continuity, thus preventing any extensor weakness. This can be used preferentially in cases of non-union intraarticular distal humerus fractures planned for Total Elbow Arthroplasty.

Outcome after internal fixation of intraarticular distal humerus (AO type B & C) fractures: Preliminary results with anatomical distal humerus LCP system.

The treatment of intraarticular fractures of the distal humerus is challenging and involves the risk of complications and bad functional results. Anatomical and stable internal fixation with early postoperative mobilization is expected to improve the functional outcomes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiological results, along with the complications associated, of open reduction and internal fixation using precontoured anatomical locking LCP plate system for intraarticular distal humerus fractures in adult patients. This prospective study consist of 31 patients with a mean age of 41.2 years (range 19-62) were treated with open reduction and angular stable internal fixation. All underwent posterior transolecranon surgical approach. Mean follow-up to the final interview was 10 months (from 6 to 20 months). All operated patients were available at the time of last followup. AO classification showed 26 C-fractures (9*13C 1, 12*13C2,5* 13C3) and 5 B-fracture (1* 13B1,1* 13B2,3* 13B3). There were 25 closed fractures and 6 open grade 1 fractures. The clinical followup using Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) and radiographic follow up with elbow anterior-posterior and lateral view X-rays were performed postoperatively. The mean MEPS was 87.9 points out of 100 (range 55-100) with 61% Excellent, 29% good and 10% fair and poor scores. Mean elbow flexion of 115.8° (range 85°-150°). The mean deficit in extension was 19° (range 5°-35°). All olecranon osteotomy were united .Nonunion of distal humerus fracture occurred in 2 cases. Other complications were hardware prominence in 3 cases, superficial infection in 4 cases and Ulnar nerve neuropraxia in 1 case which was recovered uneventfully. Revision surgery was not required in any complication. Open reduction and internal fixation with precontoured distal humerus anatomical locking plate system is a good method of treatment for complex Supra- intercondylar fracture of distal humerus with good functional outcome and low rates of complications. Even though early results are promising, longer term investigations and larger patient groups are necessary to confirm the presented data.

Functional Results of Communited Intra-articular Distal Humerus Fractures Treated with Bicolumnar Plating.

Communited intra-articular distal humerus fractures are commonly encountered in orthopaedic practice and they are present with unique difficulties for internal fixation. This problem is especially worse in the elderly due to osteoporotic bone. To evaluate the intermediate term results (minimum follow up of two years) of communited intra-articular distal humerus fractures treated with bicolumnar plating with or without olecranon osteotomy in elderly Indian population. Sixty three consecutive patients operated with bicolumnar plating for communited intra-articular distal humerus fractures at the tertiary care centre were identified in the time period between 2009 and 2013. All patients had an age more than 60 years at the time of surgery. A minimum follow up of two years post surgery was a mandatory criteria. The Disabilities of Arm and Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and the Mayo Elbow Performance (MEP) score calculated along with complete range of motion. The mean follow-up was 38 months. All patients achieved fracture union with mean MEP and DASH scores being 85 ± 15.5 and 21.4 ± 4.9 respectively. These scores although poor were comparable to the opposite side (90 and 12.2 respectively). Also the mean supination-pronation arc and flexion-extension arc was 156 degrees and 105 degrees respectively. This is well within the functional range of elbow. The mean block to extension was at 15 degrees with a mean maximal flexion of 120 degrees. Our study conclusively establishes that excellent functional outcome can be achieved with open reduction and internal fixation in Type C distal humerus fractures in elderly including the ones that are communited. Total elbow arthroplasty although a viable option, gives similar results to a well done internal fixation with added cost.

Biomechanical comparison of orthogonal versus parallel double plating systems in intraarticular distal humerus fractures

ObjectivesIn intraarticular distal humerus fractures, internal fixation with double plates is the gold standard treatment. However the optimal plate configuration is not clear in the literature. The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical stability of the parallel and the orthogonal anatomical locking plating systems in intraarticular distal humerus fractures in artificial humerus models. MethodsIntraarticular distal humerus fracture (AO13-C2) with 5 mm metaphyseal defect was created in sixteen artificial humeral models. Models were fixed with either orthogonal or parallel plating systems with locking screws (Acumed elbow plating systems). Both systems were tested for their stiffness with loads in axial compression, varus, valgus, anterior and posterior bending. Then plastic deformation after cyclic loading in posterior bending and load to failure in posterior bending were tested. The failure mechanisms of all the samples were observed. ResultsStiffness values in every direction were not significantly different among the orthogonal and the parallel plating groups. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in plastic deformation values (0.31 mm–0.29 mm) and load to failure tests in posterior bending (372.4 N–379.7 N). In the orthogonal plating system most of the failures occurred due to the proximal shaft fracture, whereas in the parallel plating system failure occurred due to the shift of the most distal screw in proximal fragment. ConclusionOur study showed that both plating systems had similar biomechanical stabilities when anatomic plates with distal locking screws were used in intraarticular distal humerus fractures in artificial humerus models.

Functional outcome of intraarticular distal humerus fracture fixation using triceps-sparing paratricipital approach.

Background:Displaced intraarticular distal humerus fracture has been conventionally treated operatively with various triceps disrupting approaches. These approaches are associated with several complications, such as triceps weakness, nonunion or delayed union of osteotomy, implant prominence, and delayed mobilization of the elbow. We present the functional outcome of intraarticular distal humerus fracture fixation using a triceps-sparing paratricipital approach which allows early elbow mobilization and preserving triceps strength.Materials and Methods:Twenty five patients with intraarticular distal humerus fracture were operated using triceps-sparing paratricipital approach with orthogonal plate construct. There were 16 male and 9 female patients and average age was 42.16 years (range 23-65 years). The mechanism of injury was fall from height (n = 8), road traffic accident (n = 13) and ground level fall (n = 4). Clinical, radiological, and functional assessment with Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) were obtained at follow up period.Results:All fractures united primarily. At the mean follow up of 13.58 months (range 6-22 months), mean elbow flexion was 121.08° (range 94°–142°) and mean motion arc was 114.92°(range 65°-140°). The mean MEPI score was 94.40 points (range 70–100) with 17 excellent, five good, and three fair results. The mean flexion deformity or extension loss was 6.16° (range 5°–15°).Conclusion:Open reduction and internal fixation of intraarticular distal humerus fractures with triceps-sparing paratricipital approach provide adequate exposure with no adverse effect on triceps muscle strength and allows early initiation of elbow motion. We analyzed, age and injury to surgical interval with relation to functional range of elbow using Z-test which is insignificant.

Outcomes After Surgical Treatment of Adolescent Intra-articular Distal Humerus Fractures.

To determine the radiographic and clinical outcomes of the surgical management of adolescent intra-articular distal humerus fractures. We performed a retrospective review of the clinical and radiographic outcomes of 31 consecutive adolescent patients surgically treated for acute distal humerus intra-articular fractures. Nine patients returned for objective measures of range of motion, strength testing, and completion of validated outcome scores including the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS); The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Score (DASH); and the SF-36. The average age at the time of injury was 13.5 years (range, 12 to 16 y) with a mean follow-up of 1.22 years (range, 9 d to 5.5 y). Multiple surgical approaches were performed. Overall, the active range of motion for our patients was 10.7 to 133.9 degrees with a mean arc of 123.4 degrees. AO classification type C2 and C3 injuries lost significantly more motion than other fracture patterns. Twelve patients sustained perioperative nerve palsies that resolved by final follow-up; seven of these nerve injuries were iatrogenic and sustained during a Bryan-Morrey tricepital slide approach. Eight patients required implant removal; 7 of these patients had prominent olecranon screws after an olecranon osteotomy. Including postoperative neuropathies, there were 20 complications in 15 patients. Thirteen complications in 9 patients required a return to the operating room. Of the 9 patients who returned for objective testing, there was no statistically significant loss of range of motion or strength of the injured extremity when compared with the uninjured limb. The MEPS revealed 6 excellent, 1 good, and 2 fair results. The average DASH score was 5.1 (range, 0 to 19.1) and the physical (average 55.7; range, 47.4 to 59.0) and mental components (average 54.2; range, 29.8 to 63.4) of the SF-36 were comparable. After surgical intervention for an adolescent intra-articular distal humerus fracture, one can expect no significant loss of motion or strength. The reported outcomes are not all excellent. The peri-operative complication rates are high and may be related to surgical approach and fracture pattern. Level IV.

Results of Surgical Treatment of Distal Humerus (AO/OTA Type C) Fractures Using Double Anatomical Plates

Objective: Distal humerus fractures are complex injuries that are particularly challenging to treat. For predictable outcomes and early joint mobilization, they should be surgically treated using double anatomical locking plates. However, several complications have been reported, such as stiffness, decreased range of motion, nerve dysfunction, posttraumatic degenerative changes, and wound and skin infections. The purpose of this study was to report the outcomes and complications after open reduction and internal fixation of intra-articular distal humerus fractures using double anatomical locking plates. Materials and Methods: Between April 2010 and May 2013, we treated 11 patients with intra-articular distal humerus fracture (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopedic Trauma Association [AO/OTA] type C). Four patients were male and 7 were female. The average age was 47.0 (range, 22-80). The pretreatment AO/OTA type was C1 in 2 patients, C2 in 6, and C3 in 3. All fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using double anatomical locking plates. Intraoperative ulnar nerve anterior transposition was performed for 10 patients. Postoperative immobilization was 1 week followed by active range of motion. Results: All patients obtained bone union. Regarding range of motion, mean elbow flexion arc was 106.5° (mean extension was −11.5° and mean flexion was 118°). The Mayo Elbow Performance Score was excellent in 4 patients, good in 6, and fair in 1. Radiographic evaluation was performed immediately and 6 months after surgery. There was no significant reduction loss between these time periods. Postoperative complications in the 10 cases included 7 with ulnar nerve neuropathy (3 with motor weakness and 4 with sensory disturbance), 2 with refixation of the olecranon, and 1 with infection. All patients with motor weakness improved and 5 patients had persistent numbness. Conclusions: No significant reduction loss was seen between the postoperative radiological evaluation performed immediately after surgery and that performed 6 months after surgery. For treating distal humeral intra-articular fractures, double anatomical locking plates can provide good stability for early active mobilization. However, this surgical method includes some complications, especially ulnar nerve dysfunction. Because gentle management of the ulnar nerve is necessary, hand surgeons should perform this surgery.

Functional Outcome After Surgical Treatment of Intra-articular Distal Humerus Fractures in Patients 70 Years of Age or Older

Introduction and Objectives: Distal humerus fractures in elderly people are associated with great comminuted fractures due to poor bone quality. The increased complexity caused by comminuted fractures is accompanied by difficulties in the fixation of osteosynthesis materials, thus facilitating the implant failure and altering the consolidation process. The objective is to analyze functional and radiological results and associated complications in patients 70 years of age or older, after surgical treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures. Materials and Methods: In total, 13 patients were evaluated between February 2012 and February 2015, treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Eight of these patients had C-type fractures and 6 A-type (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen [AO] classification). All patients were treated with double locking plate using a posterior approach with olecranon osteotomy. Radiological and functional assessments were made. Results: The average flexion range was 118°, though the loss of extension was 25°. Eighty-two percent of the patients had grade 1 arthrosis. We found 2 cases of pseudoarthrosis (one distal humerus and the other of olecranon) and 3 cases of neuropraxias (2 ulnar and 1 radial, which fully recovered). Three reinterventions were made (2 for material removal and 1 for reosteosintesis-vocabulario). The average Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and hand Score was 19.87, and the Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 85. Discussion: Treatment with open reduction and internal fixation using two locking plates for A and C types of distal humerus in patients 70 years of age or older gave satisfactory functional results, according to patients’ demands, and do not significantly change the quality of life.

Olecranon Osteotomy With Tension Band Wire Repair.

The purpose of this video is to demonstrate the surgical technique of olecranon osteotomy with tension band wire repair. A patient with a comminuted, intra-articular distal humerus fracture requiring ORIF is presented in this video demonstration of the surgical technique of an olecranon osteotomy. The olecranon osteotomy is an established technique for approaching the distal humerus for surgical repair of fracture. In the video, the patient is positioned laterally allowing a dorsal incision. The ulnar nerve is identified and protected. A chevron osteotomy, apex distally based, is created in the proximal ulna using osteotomes, centering the osteotomy within the sulcus of the proximal ulna. Once the osteotomy has been completed, the proximal ulna is reflected proximally to allow access to the distal humerus. The osteotomy is repaired using a tension band wire technique. The 2 longitudinal K-wires (0.062 inches) engage the volar cortex of the ulna and the tips of the pins are buried beneath the triceps tendon. A figure 8, 18-gauge cerclage wire is twisted to compress the osteotomy site at the end of the procedure to promote stability and healing. The video is 10 minutes, 30 seconds duration in time and 2,048,409,000 bytes in size. Various techniques of olecranon osteotomy have been described. The principles of a well-centered osteotomy and a stable repair are essential to this technique. This is demonstrated in the video of an olecranon osteotomy using osteotomes and a tension band repair.

Short-Term Complications of Distal Humerus Fractures in Elderly Patients: Open Reduction Internal Fixation Versus Total Elbow Arthroplasty.

Background:The purpose of this study was to evaluate 30-day postoperative complications of open reduction and internal fixation [ORIF] and total elbow arthroplasty [TEA] for the treatment of distal humerus fractures in elderly patients using a validated national database.Methods:Review of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) Database identified all elderly patients (>65 years) who underwent TEA or ORIF for the treatment of closed intra-articular distal humerus fractures from 2007 to 2013. Bivariate and multivariate analyses of risk factors for 30-day adverse events as defined by NSQIP between ORIF and TEA groups were assessed using preoperative and intraoperative variables.Results:Among the 176 patients with distal humerus fractures, there were 33 TEA and 143 ORIF. There was no difference in age, medical comorbidities, or functional status. Total elbow arthroplasty was associated with an increased odds of severe adverse event compared to ORIF (odds ratio = 1.57, P = .16), although it did not achieve statistical significance. Infection rate was 0.7% in ORIF and 0.0% in TEA (P = .99). Insulin-dependent diabetes and functional status were significant independent predictors of postoperative adverse events. Operative time (165 minutes vs 140 minutes, P = .06) and postoperative length of stay (3.6 days vs 2.3 days, P = 0.03) were longer for TEA compared to ORIF.Conclusion:Open reduction and internal fixation and TEA have similar 30-day postoperative complications for the treatment of distal humerus fractures among elderly patients. Despite favorable trends for TEA in recent studies, additional clinical results are needed to understand complications and limitation of TEA.Level of evidence:Level III, prognostic study.