Intra-articular Distal Humerus Fractures Research Articles

Functional Outcome of Intercondylar Distal Humerus Fractures Surgically Treated with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation with a Principle Based on Orthogonal Plating Technique

Introduction: Owing to the complex articular structure, paucity of metaphyseal bone and thin soft tissue covering, treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures still pose challenge to surgeons. Although it comprises 2% of all fractures the massive complication rate to the treatment is worrisome. This study aims to evaluate the outcome of surgical treatment of these fractures by open reduction and internal fixation by dual orthogonal plates.
 Objectives: The objective of the study is to evaluate the functional outcome of intercondylar humerus fractures managed with open reduction and internal fixation with orthogonal dual plating technique.
 Methodology: Eighteen patients (19 – 68 years old) with AO/OTA type 13C fractures were evaluated after surgery for one year with MEPS and range of motion. Complications were categorized as major or minor complications. Functional comparisons were made between simple articular type C1/C2 and complex articular type C3 fractures at one year.
 Result: There were 2 (11.11%) type C1 fracture and 8 (44.44%) each in type C2 and C3 fractures. Eight (44.44%) patients obtained excellent, 7 (38.89%) obtained good and 3 (16.7%) obtained fair results. There was no poor outcome. Average MEPS score was 83.33 and there was no significant between the subgroups (p = 0.07). The average flexion was 118.06° and it was significantly impaired in type C3 fractures (p = 0.03). Three patients obtained full extension, and remaining patients had mean extension deficit of 12°. Average arch of motion was 108.06° with significant difference between two subgroups (p = 0.008). The mean arc of motion for supination-pronation was 154.44°. There was 5 minor and 2 major complications (total - 38.9%).
 Conclusion: The surgical management with open reduction and internal fixation by dual plates in orthogonal configuration for the intercondylar distal humeral AO type C fractures has good or excellent functional outcome in majority of the patients.

Transverse olecranon osteotomy with Gigli saw: A fast and reliable technique

Objective. Distal humerus fractures constitute of approximately 2% of all fractures and 30% of elbow fractures. Olecranon osteotomy provides excellent exposure of distal humerus and articular surface. In this study, we aimed to compare transverse osteotomy with gigli saw and classical chevron osteotomy techniques in terms of osteotomy duration and clinical results. Materials and Methods. 40 elbows of 40 patients with Type B intraarticular distal humerus fractures according to AO classification were included in our study. Patients were divided into 2 groups as transverse or chevron osteotomy groups. Patients were evaluated in terms of intraoperative osteotomy time, postoperative time to union, range of motion in the elbow joint and Quick Dash scores at 6th, 12th and 24th months. Results. The mean age of the patients was 45.6 years (19-62). 40% of the patients (8 patients) in the Chevron group had more than 2 mm stepping at articular surface, while this rate was 10% (2 patients) in the gigli saw group. Union was obtained in all patients for both techniques. There was no significant difference between the mean QuickDASH scores and range of motion of the elbow joints except flexion in both groups. Range of motion of flexion was statistically better in the gigli saw group (p<0.05). Conclusions. Transverse osteotomy technique significantly reduces osteotomy and fixation time and will not cause problems in fracture union. It may be preferred because it is simpler and faster to apply than chevron osteotomy and because intra-articular stepping is less common.

Intra-articular Distal Humerus Fractures: Parallel Versus Orthogonal Plating.

Background: Dual-plating osteosynthesis is the standard treatment for Orthopedic Trauma Association (OTA)-type 13-C distal humerus fractures. However, optimal plate position is debated. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate dual-plate positioning following intra-articular distal humerus fracture repair by comparing outcomes between patients plated in parallel and those plated orthogonally following open-reduction, internal-fixation (ORIF) of intra-articular distal humerus fractures. Methods: All OTA-type 13-C intra-articular distal humerus fractures treated operatively at our institution over a 10-year period were reviewed. Clinical outcomes and complications were compared between those plated in parallel and those plated orthogonally. Data were analyzed using independent-samples t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, chi-square tests, and Fisher's exact tests. Results: A total of 69 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean follow-up among this cohort was 19.3 months; 45 (64.8%) patients had orthogonal dual plating, and 24 (35.2%) had parallel plating. Groups did not differ with respect to demographics or duration of follow-up. Clinically, there were no significant differences in time to union, elbow arc of motion at any time point, or patient Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) scores at final follow-up. Furthermore, there were no differences in complications. Conclusion: Parallel and orthogonal plating following ORIF of distal humerus fractures with modern, contoured locking compression plates had similar outcomes in this study. This study represents the largest comparative series in the literature at the time of its writing. Both techniques may be considered when deciding on dual-plating technique for treating intra-articular distal humerus fractures.

A PROSPECTIVE FOLLOW UP STUDY OF FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF SUPRACONDYLAR HUMERUS FRACTURE WITH INTERCONDYLAR EXTENSION TREATED WITH OLECRANON OSTEOTOMY APPROACH

Introduction- Olecranon osteotomy is standard approach for low transcondylar and intercondylar distal humerus fractures. Distal humerus fractures are difcult to manage successfully because of the local anatomic constraints, the frequent presence of comminution,displacement and osteopenia. We studied the functional outcome and complications following surgical xation using this approach. Material And Methods- A total 20 consecutive patients(male:15,female:5),having mean age 42.1yrs, of Distal Humerus fractures who will attend the casualty or O.P.D during the thesis period(June2018 to October2020) at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital & Mathuradas Mathur Hospital Jodhpur (Rajasthan) will be included in study group and managed surgically using olecranon osteotomy approach. Functional outcome was evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score(MEPS) and complications were observed. Results- Mean loss of extension was 10°.Mean exion achieved was 122.75°.Mean range of movement at treated elbow was 113°. All fractures united by the end of 3 months. Final results were excellent in 8 cases; good in 7 cases; fair in 4 and poor in one case. Most common complication in our study was discomfort due to hardware(6 cases). Supercial infection occurred in 2 cases. Screw/wire backout occurred in 2 cases. Elbow stiffness and malunion happened in one case. Functional outcome was also dependant on fracture subtype. Conclusion- Intraarticular distal humerus fracture treated with olecranon osteotomy approach had good articular exposure and surgical xation. This approach had good functional outcome and fewer complications.

Complex fractures of the distal humerus in the elderly: primary total elbow arthroplasty or open reduction and internal fixation? Mid-term follow-up.

To compare the mid-term outcomes in intra-articular distal humerus fracture (AO/OTA type C) treated with either open reduction-internal fixation (ORIF) or total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) in patients older than 75 years and with more than fiveyears of follow-up. Retrospective study including 24 patients (11 TEA vs. 13 ORIF) with a mean age of 82 years and being all females. Results assessed included (1) radiographic measures; (2) functional results: range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), quick-DASH; and (3) complications. TEA group vs. ORIF group achieved a mean flexion of 117° ± 9.6° vs. 106° ± 14°, extension loss of 38° ± 17° vs. 30.8° ± 16°, pronation 75° ± 5° vs. 85° ± 7° and supination 75° ± 4° vs. 70° ± 5°. Mean MEPS score was 71.6 vs. 83.6 (p = .183) and mean quick-DASH was 44.8 vs. 42.6 (p = .789). All 13 patients in the ORIF group demonstrated radiographic signs of bone union and none underwent conversion to TEA. Sixty-three percent of the patients in the TEA group underwent re-operation at an average of 72 months (62.4-75.2 months), including three for periprosthetic fracture and four for implant loosening. Whereas in the ORIF group, 23% of the patients were re-operatedupon excluding olecranon osteotomy hardware, two for stiffness, and one for an olecranon tension band wire failure. Although there were no differences in mid-term functional outcomes between either treatment, our results suggest that the recent trend towards the use of TEA instead of ORIF in the elderly should be re-examined due to the high rate of complications beyond five years of follow-up with TEA.

Clinical comparison of management of intra-articular distal humerus fractures with two surgical approaches; TRAP vs Olecranon osteotomy

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the functional outcomes of patients with intra-articular distal humerus fractures treated with triceps-reflecting anconeus pedicle (TRAP) and olecranon osteotomy. Methods: Thirty three patients with intra-articular distal humerus fractures were retrospectively analysed. TRAP approach was used in 17 patients (10 males, 7 females; mean age 35.9 years, range 17-70), and olecranon osteotomy in 16 patients (11 males, 5 females; mean age 34.4 years, range 18-62). Fractures were classified using the AO/ASIF classification. Functional results were evaluated with the Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) and the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire score. Results: The overall mean arc of elbow motion was 108° (range 70°-140°) in the TRAP group, whereas that of the olecranon osteotomy group was 102° (range 70°-130°). There were no significant differences noted between the two groups in terms of mean MEPS and DASH scores (p=0.318, p=0.236, respectively). The overall complication rate was 41.17% in the TRAP group and 56.25% in the olecranon osteotomy group. Conclusion: Intra-articular distal humerus fractures mandates surgical fixation for best functional outcomes. Both TRAP and olecranon osteotomy approaches can be used in the treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures. Both approaches yields no significant difference in clinical and functional results for intra-articular distal humerus fracture management.

A retrospective comparison of olecranon osteotomy and paratricipital approach in treatment of distal humerus intra-articular fractures

Aim: Paratricipital approach and Olecranon osteotomy are most commonly used to treat intra-articular distal humerus fractures in adults. In this study we have analysed the patients in whom we performed open reduction and internal fixation with and withoutolecranon osteotomy and evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of both methods.Materials and Methods: Between 2014 and 2018, 36 adult patients with intra-articular distal humerus fracture were retrospectively analysed. According to AO classification system 9, patient has Type B2, 1 Type B3, 7 Type C1, 10 Type C2 and 9 Type C3 fractures. Mayo Elbow Performance Score for evaluation of the elbow joint stability and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand score to evaluate the functionality of shoulder, arm and hand was used.Results: Paratricipital approach was used in 12 patients (8 male , 4 female) and olecranon osteotomy in 24 patients. Mayo Elbow Performance Score and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores were found respectively 15.808 and 81.25 in the Paratricipital group whereas those values were determined as 17.37 and 79.17, respectively. No statistically significant difference was found between two groups in terms of these two scorings (p=0.147 and p=0.244, respectively) A statistically significant difference was detected between the groups in terms of heterotopic ossification ( p=0.008). In the paratricipital group; no heterotopic ossification was found in 7 (58.3%) patients whereas Type 1 heterotopic ossification was detected in 5 (41.7%) patients. In the olecranon osteotomy group; no heterotopic ossification was found in 4 (16.7%) patients whereas Type 1 and Type 2 heterotopic ossification were detected in 16 (66.7%) and 4 (17.7%) patients, respectively (p=0.008). A statistically significantly higher rate of elbow degeneration and heterotopic ossification was observed in the patients who underwent osteotomy compared with those who were not performed osteotomy (p=0.008)Conclusions: Paratricipital approach can be performed as an alternative treatment option in the distal humerus fractures to reduce the postoperative complications even though it does not allow to perform a comprehensive preoperative evaluation of the joint as well as olecranon osteotomy approach.

Distal humerus dual plating with triceps tongue technique: A case series

Background: Fixation of intra-articular distal humerus fractures has remained a challenge to orthopaedic surgeons due to complicated anatomy of elbow, comminution at fracture site and osteopenia of articular surfaces. We aimed to evaluate the functional outcomes and complications after dual plating for distal humerus fractures with triceps tongue technique. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective study which consisted of 20 cases of distal humerus fracture with intraarticular extension and treated with open reduction and internal fixation with dual column plating using triceps tongue technique. Triceps Tongue approach allows exposure of distal humerus articular surface by forming an inverted V-shaped flap of distal triceps at the musculotendinous junction. Results: Union was achieved in all cases. Mean time of fracture union was 12.55±1.82 weeks. There was no case of non-union although elbow stiffness occurred in one patient. The mean MEPS score was 84.45±8.18 with a range of 70-96. Conclusion: Triceps Tongue approach is a simple and less technically demanding approach for the surgeon that can be used in management of the majority of the distal humeral fractures, giving adequate exposure of the surgical field, aiding in proper reduction of fracture fragments and thus obviating the need for an olecranon osteotomy.

Skinny wire and locking plate fixation for comminuted intra-articular distal humerus fractures: a technical trick and case series

Intra-articular distal humerus fractures present a challenge to orthopedic surgeons. Stable fixation is difficult to achieve in fractures with articular and metaphyseal comminution and osteoporotic bone. Hence, these fractures are more commonly being managed with total elbow arthroplasty. We describe a novel surgical technique that confers stable fixation, allowing for early range of motion resulting in a high rate of union, a functional range of motion, and excellent patient reported outcome scores without the activity restrictions of total elbow arthroplasty. Retrospective case series of 30 patients with AO/OTA type B and C intra-articular distal humerus fractures who underwent ORIF from 2014-2019 utilizing a novel surgical technique that focuses on reconstructing a comminuted articular surface through meticulous, transverse fixation of the tiny articular fragments with long, thin Kirchner wires, which are then bent over and trapped under locking compression plates to create a fixed angle support to the metadiaphysis. Patient mean age of 59 (19-90) years and 61% were female. Median follow up was 1.2 years. Twenty-seven (87%) were type C fractures and 3 (13%) were type B. Five patients (16%) suffered a concurrent ipsilateral upper extremity injury and four (13%) had an open fracture. Two were polytrauma patients. All fractures healed with an average time to union of 11 weeks. Over 80% patients reported no or mild pain at final follow up. Mean arc of elbow motion was 102 degrees, mean QuickDASH score 25.2. Post-operative complications included ulnar nerve paresthesias (38%), wound infection (3.2%), heterotopic ossification (3.2%), and olecranon nonunion (3.2%). Eight patients underwent secondary procedures: 7 (23%) removal hardware, 3(9.6%) capsular release, 2 (6.4%) ulnar nerve transpositions, and 1 (3.2%) total elbow arthroplasty. We describe a novel surgical technique that we believe results in strong, stable fixation of complex intra-articular distal humerus fractures irrespective of bone quality. In our series, all fractures healed and post-operatively patients reported low levels of pain, achieved excellent elbow range of motion, high patient reported outcome scores. Patients should be counseled about high rates of post-operative ulnar nerve paresthesias that can be expected to improve over time and high reoperation rates for symptomatic hardware.

Optimal Fixation of the Capitellar Fragment in Distal Humerus Fractures.

To determine if orthogonal or parallel plate position provides superior fixation of the separate capitellar fragment often present in intra-articular distal humerus fractures. We hypothesized that orthogonal plating would provide stiffer fixation given a greater number of opportunities for capitellar fixation and screw trajectories perpendicular to the fracture plane offered by a posterolateral plate compared with a parallel plate construct. Ten matched pairs of cadaveric distal humeri were used to compare parallel and orthogonal plating in a fracture gap model with an isolated capitellar fragment. The capitellum was loaded in 20 degrees of flexion using a cyclic, ramp-loading protocol. Fracture displacement was measured using video tracking software. The primary outcome was axial stiffness for each construct. Secondary outcomes included maximum axial and angular fracture displacement. The parallel plate construct was more than twice as stiff as the orthogonal plate construct averaged across all loads (1464.8 ± 224.0 N/mm vs. 526.3 ± 90.8 N/mm, P < 0.001). Average axial fracture displacement was 0.15 ± 0.03 mm versus 0.53 ± 0.10 mm for parallel versus orthogonal plating, respectively (P = 0.003). Angular fracture displacement was minimal for both constructs (0.009 ± 0.001 degrees vs. 0.028 ± 0.006 degrees for parallel vs. orthogonal constructs). Despite fewer points of fixation, a parallel plate construct provided stiffer fixation with less displacement of the simulated capitellar fracture fragment than an orthogonal plate construct in this biomechanical study. In the setting of an articular fracture, in which absolute stability and primary bone healing are desirable, parallel fixation should be considered even in fractures with a separate capitellar fragment if the size of fragment and fracture orientation allows.

Elbow hemiarthroplasty in distal humeral fractures: Indication, surgical technique and results

The surgical management of distal humerus fractures in adults generally consists in open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) or total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). Hemi humeral hemiarthroplasty (EHA) is a treatment option for unreconstructable intra-articular distal humerus fractures. It is a reasonable option in patients over the fifth decade and its potential advantages are to eliminate the complications related to the ulnar component such as wear of the hinge (busching wear) or the aspetic loosening of the ulnar component. The potential disadvantages are the risk of instability with the possibility of a wear and progressive joint osteoarthrosis. The aims of this manuscript are to evaluate the indications in which we used the EHA, analyzing the correct surgical technique and describe the outcomes in medium and long-term follow-ups. Between 2006 and 2019, we performed 51 EHAs at the Hesperia Hospital in Modena and at the Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute. Taking into consideration only the cases of acute fractures, 27 patients (27 elbows) with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were identified. The patient's mean age at the time of surgery was 64 years old (range from 45 to 78 years old) and they were 78% female (21 out of 27). The Latitude Tornier implant was used in all the patients of our group. The mean MEPS was 89.3 points (from 50 to 100 pts) with excellent results in 19 patients, good in 5, one fair and 2 poor;the mean DASH was 12.6 (from 3.3 to 45.8); the mean OES was 42.3 (from 22 to 47). Complications, were found in 12 patients and any patients required a TEA conversion. Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty from our experience is a good option for the surgical management of unrecostructible distal humeral fractures in selected patients. It is important to perform a precise surgical technique; preserve the triceps insertion, preserve or repair the collateral ligaments, fix the condylar bones implant the prosthesis at the correct size, depth and rotation. The majority of the complication that we observed are related to the stiffness and not to the progressive degenerative changes of the articular surface

Evaluation of functional outcome after osteosynthesis of intra articular distal humerus fracture with pre contoured locking compression plates

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Intra articular distal humerus fractures are challenging and cumbersome to treat. Therefore osteosynthesis of such fractures is required. The aim of our study was to evaluate the functional outcome of intra articular distal humerus fractures AO type 13C by osteosynthesis using olecranon osteotomy with pre contoured locking compression plates in orthogonal plate configuration.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; Thirty patients were included in our study comprising of 18 males and 12 females. Mean age was 39.63 years with mean follow up of 34 weeks. 7 were AO type 13C1, 9 were AO type 13C2 and 14 were AO type 13C3. Osteosynthesis was done for all fractures by olecranon osteotomy approach. Functional outcome was assessed using mayo elbow performance score.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; Mean flexion attained at the end of follow up was 127.56 degrees with mean extensor lag of 7.16 degrees. Mean arc of motion was 120.4 degrees. Mean mayo elbow performance score at the end of follow up was 80.36. Mayo elbow performance score in patients aged less than 40 years of age was not statistically significant as compared to patients more than 40 years of age. Functional outcome was also dependent on fracture subtype.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Osteosynthesis of distal humerus fractures AO type 13C using pre contoured locking compression plates in orthogonal plate configuration by olecranon osteotomy provides excellent visualization of fracture and better functional outcome.&lt;/p&gt;

Analysis of Factors Affecting Return to Work After Surgical Treatment in Patients with AO Type C Distal Humerus Fractures.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional results of distal humerus fractures which were treated by open reduction and fixation with pre-contoured angular stable plates in young patients, and investigate whether the patients could return to their pre-injury work and patients' financial conditions while they were not working. The data of 48 patients, ages between 18 and 55years, working in a job and having AO/OTA type C distal humerus fracture were retrospectively evaluated. Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was used to determine functional results. Postoperative radiographs were evaluated to determine the rate of union, degenerative changes, malunion and heterotopic ossification. Financial outcome form was constituted by the authors and the patients asked whether she/he could return to their pre-injury works after treatment finished and the financial status of the patients during the treatment and after the treatment. The mean flexion-extension arc was 114° ± 12°(range 85°-135°) and the mean MEPS score was 85 ± 11(range 65-100). The average time to return to work was 6.5 ± 2.4months (3-12months). AO type C2 and C3 fractures and heterotopic ossification negatively affected the functional results and also adversely affected the patients' return to their pre-injury works. 38 (79%) patients returned to pre-injury work and 29 (76%) of them started to work at the same position before the fracture occured. Nine of 38 patients (24%) had to change their positions. Among the 48 patients, 10 patients (21%) could not return to the same work, 7 of them found light duty and 3 of them had not been to work. Although the functional results of surgical treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures are good, at the end of the treatment, especially heavy workers may have difficulties in returning to their former works.

Reoperation Risk After Total Elbow Arthroplasty Versus Open Reduction Internal Fixation for Distal Humerus Fractures in Elderly Patients.

To compare reoperation risk after total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) and open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for intra-articular distal humerus fractures in elderly patients. Retrospective comparative. Five percent Medicare Part B claims database. Patients older than 65 years of age with closed distal humerus fractures undergoing TEA or ORIF from 1996 to 2016. TEA and ORIF. Reoperation risk based on multivariate Cox proportional hazards modeling. A total of 142 TEA and 522 ORIF cases were identified. TEA patients had a greater age and Charlson Comorbidity Index , as well as a higher prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis than ORIF patients (P < 0.05). Although reoperation risk was lower for TEA than that for ORIF within the entire cohort (11.3% vs. 25.1%; hazard ratio = 0.49; P = 0.014), no significant difference was found for TEA and ORIF performed between 2006 and 2016 (12.6% vs. 18.4%; hazard ratio = 0.73; P = 0.380). The death rate was 65.5% in the TEA group at 3.6 years and 55.7% in the ORIF group at 4.9 years. TEA was associated with a decreased reoperation risk compared with ORIF, although this difference did not exist for more recent procedures after popularization of the locking plate technology and half of the reoperations after ORIF were for instrumentation removal. The high death rate within several years of the index procedure may contribute to the low TEA revision rate beyond the short-term when following patients into the medium and long term. Further study comparing TEA and locked plating using prospective, randomized data with long-term follow-up and functional outcomes is warranted. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

A pilot biomechanical study comparing a novel, intramedullary Nail/Plate construct to standard Dual-Plate fixation of intra-articular C2.3 distal humerus fractures

BackgroundThe gold-standard treatment for intra-articular distal humerus fractures (DHFs) is dual-plate/dual-column fixation, though optimal orientation is not yet established. With a superior method not yet identified, we propose a load-sharing construct, combining absolute stability (extramedullary plate fixation) for distal articular fragments and relative stability (load-sharing intramedullary nail) for the metaphyseal segment. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the biomechanical performance of a novel implant compared to orthogonal dual-plating. Materials and methodsTen fresh-frozen matched-pairs of human cadaveric upper extremities with no prior elbow pathology/surgery were used. Pairs were randomized into two groups: Dual-Plate (medial and posterolateral) or novel Nail/Plate (cross-locked medial nail and posterolateral plate). AO/ASIF type 13-C2.3 multifragmentary fractures with simulated metaphyseal comminution. Biomechanical testing included stiffness (MPa) and load to failure (Newtons) in axial (100 cycles at 3 Hz at 20 N increments from 20 to 100 N) and coronal (varus/valgus; 4,000 cycles from 50N-100 N at 3 Hz) planes. Failed specimens were not analyzed and mechanisms were identified. For all failures, mechanisms were identified and reviewed by three consultant surgeons for revision vs. immobilization, to attempt to recreate a real-world scenario. All outcomes were compared between groups. ResultsDuring stiffness testing, zero Nail/Plate specimens failed, but two (20%) Dual-Plate specimens failed (mechanisms: fracture diastasis; bone collapse and intussusception into osteotomy, yielding articular congruency loss). For remaining samples, Nail/Plate (n = 10) coronal (varus/valgus) stiffness was comparable to Dual-Plate (n = 8) constructs (41.5 vs. 39.0 MPa, p = 0.440). Remaining Dual-Plate constructs had greater axial overall stiffness than Nail/Plate (118.3 ± 48.3 vs. 95.6 ± 34.7 MPa, p = 0.020). Failure loads were comparable between Nail/Plate and Dual-Plate constructs (1,327.8 vs. 1,032.4 N, p = 0.170). Individual nail yield strength ranged from 1,101.1–1,124.4 N (n = 2). In review of all failures, the most common overall mechanism was fracture/osteotomy site posterolateral plate bending. Revision recommendation rate was comparable between constructs (Nail/Plate, 22.2% vs. Dual-Plate, 44.4%, p>0.05). ConclusionsThe novel Nail/Plate construct demonstrated non-inferior coronal (varus/valgus) stiffness, despite producing lower axial stiffness than orthogonal dual-plating, potentially due to the load-sharing cross-locked design. Considering comparable biomechanical performance, with no failures and comparable recommendations for revision, this novel construct warrants further evaluation as an alternative to the gold-standard, dual-plate fixation method for intra-articular distal humerus fractures. Level of evidenceN/A

Randomised prospective comparative analysis of functional outcome of osteosynthesis of intra-articular distal humerus fracture using triceps reflecting and transolecrenon approach

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Intra articular fractures of distal humerus is one of the demanding injuries to manage due to its complex anatomy. Open reduction internal fixation is able to achieve painless, stable and mobile joint. This study is aimed at comparing functional outcome of patients treated with triceps reflecting and olecranon osteotomy approach.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; A hospital based randomized comparative study of 40 patients who diagnosed with distal humerus intraarticular fracture admitted in our hospital from April 2017 to March 2019. Triceps reflecting approach (group A) was used in 20 patients and olecranon osteotomy approach (group B) in 20 patients. Elbow range of movements and Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) was used to compare outcome.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; The mean elbow range of motion is 95.8±13.5 degree at 1 year follow up in group A and 94.5±9.3 degree in 1 year follow up at 1 year follow up in group B. The mean MEP score at end of 1 year in group A was 93.8±2.9 and in group B was 91.5±3.2 shows excellent results but there was no statistically significant difference between MEP scores of two groups. We observed 6 patients developed extension lag less than 10 degree in group A which was clinically insignificant to patients and 7 patients developed hardware prominence in group B.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Triceps reflecting Bryan Morrey approach is equally effective as olecranon osteotomy approach in treatment of distal humerus intra articular fracture with less complication and operative time.&lt;/p&gt;

Surgical Approach and Internal Fixation Techniques for Intra-Articular Distal Humerus Fracture With Coronal Shear Capitellar Fracture.

Intra-articular distal humerus fractures with an associated coronal shear capitellar fragment present a challenge for stable internal fixation. Adequate visualization and fixation of the capitellar shear fragment are difficult to achieve with conventional exposures, including the olecranon osteotomy. The capitellar fragment often translates anterior and proximally and is challenging to visualize with intact soft tissue attachments from a posterior approach. We describe a surgical exposure that releases the lateral ulnar collateral ligament in addition to an olecranon osteotomy to allow complete visualization of the entire articular surface. In contrast to an isolated capitellar fracture, the column stability and the posterior cortex are frequently disrupted with distal humerus fractures. Depending on the comminution of the posterior cortex, a supplemental posterolateral plate or headless compression screws can provide fixation to the coronal fracture plane. The lateral ulnar collateral ligament is repaired at the conclusion of fracture stabilization through a bone tunnel or to the plate to restore lateral stability. Despite the release of the ligament and additional soft tissue stripping, there were no cases of elbow instability or avascular necrosis in our case series of 9 patients.

Comparison of open reduction and internal fixation with total elbow arthroplasty for intra-articular distal humeral fractures in older age: a retrospective study.

BackgroundIntra-articular distal humeral fractures can be surgically challenging. It remains under discussion whether open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is more beneficial for treatment of the elderly. This study aimed to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of ORIF and TEA for managing intra-articular distal humerus fractures in patients aged 65 years or older.MethodsPatients who underwent ORIF (n=28) or TEA (n=43) for in intra-articular distal humerus fracture between May 2008 and December 2018 were reviewed. Range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, radiologic outcomes, and surgical complications were evaluated at the final follow-up visit.ResultsThe ORIF and TEA groups showed a mean arc of flexion–extension of 97°±21° and 101°±12°, respectively. The mean MEPS and DASH scores were 94±15 and 27±12 points, respectively, in the ORIF group and 81±27 and 47±28 points in the TEA group. This difference was statistically significant. The incidence of total complications was similar between the groups.ConclusionsIn patients older than 65 years with intra-articular distal humerus fracture, ORIF had better outcomes than TEA.

Clinical outcome of treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fracture with open reduction and internal fixation by orthogonal locking plate: a prospective study

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; The aim of the study was to study the clinical outcome and complications of surgical management of intra-articular fractures of distal humerus.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; A prospective study included 23 consented patients with intra-articular distal humeral fractures who underwent osteosynthesis by orthogonal locking compression plating using posterior approach with olecranon osteotomy between November 2017 to May 2019 at BLDE(DU’s) Shri BM Patil Medical College, Vijayapura, Karnataka.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; In our study there were 15 male patients and 8 female patients with mean age of 38.5 years. 65.2% of the cases admitted were due to motor vehicle accident, 21.7% due to accidental fall and 13% due to fall from height with right side (73.9%) being the more commonly affected side. The mean operative time was 100 minutes. Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 83.3% post operatively and the mean arc of motion was 117°. 82% of cases fared excellent to good results.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Orthogonal locking plate construct provides stable rigid fixation for allowing early mobilisation and allows predictable healing both clinically and functionally in these complicated fractures. Absence of implant failure and non-union may be attributed to the highly stable construct system achieved by orthogonal locking plating. Majority of our cases had good functional outcome and return to pre injury status.&lt;/p&gt;

Observational study of outcome of open reduction and internal fixation of supracondylar with inter condylar humeral fracture in patient above 18 years at tertiary care center of south Gujarat

Aim: To anayise functional outcome of surgical management of supracondylar with inter condylar humeral fracture. Materials and Method: We hereby report the outcome of a series of Intracondylar fractures of the humerus treated by open reduction and internal fixation and discuss the controversies in light of published literature. Total 50 patients included in this retrospective study which include 36 male and 14 female. 39 patients were treated using Orthogonic platting and 11 patients were treated using parallel platting via posterior approach within 15 days of injury. Functional outcome was assessed via DASH (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand), MEPS(Mayo Elbow Performance Score) at 6 months. Results:At the end of 6 months flexion arc was 115 ± 6.79 in the orthogonal group while that in the parallel plating group was 112 ± 7.72. MEPS and DASH scores were 87.23 ± 7.75 and 24.23 ± 6.02 for the orthogonal group and 89 ± 8.07 and 23.18 ± 11.33 for the parallel plating group, respectively. In our practice, no significant differences were found between the orthogonal and parallel plating methods in terms of clinical outcomes or complication rates. Conclusion: The high rate of union can be achieved in complex intra-articular fractures of distal humerus if the proper principles of stable fracture fixation are followed, and dual fixation of both columns and restoration of the continuity of articular surface. The stability achieved by this technique permits institution of early intensive physiotherapy to restore elbow function.