Treatment Of Distal Humerus Fractures Research Articles

Total elbow arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in the elderly: Experience from a tertiary referral centre

BackgroundThere is no clear consensus on whether total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) or hemiarthroplasty (HA) is superior for treating distal humerus fractures in the elderly. This study analysed the functional outcomes and re-operation rates following TEA and HA for intra-articular distal humerus fractures in patients aged ≥65 years. Methods19 patients (TEA = 12, HA = 7) treated between 2016 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Mean age was 73 years and mean follow-up was 46 months. Functional outcomes and quality of life were assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Quick-DASH (Q-DASH), Oxford Elbow Score (OES), SF-12 Physical Component Score (PCS) and Mental Component Score (MCS), and EQ-5D. Complications requiring re-operation were recorded. ResultsHA showed superior outcomes in MEPS (93.6 vs 75.0, p = 0.0339), Q-DASH (13.3 vs 31.3, p = 0.0182), OES (41.7 vs 33.2, p = 0.0346), SF-12 PCS (55.5 vs 36.9, p = 0.0008) and EQ-5D (83 vs 67, p = 0.0023). One HA patient required revision to TEA for prosthetic joint infection. One TEA patient required revision for a periprosthetic ulna fracture. ConclusionHA provides better functional outcomes compared to TEA in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in the elderly. Data is limited by selection bias and low patient numbers with a multicentre randomised controlled trial warranted.

Outcomes of total elbow arthroplasty in the treatment of distal humeral fractures in the elderly: a retrospective cohort comparison between primary arthroplasty and arthroplasty secondary to failed internal fixation

BackgroundThe primary objective of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of total elbow arthroplasty as the index procedure in the treatment of traumatic distal humerus fractures, with secondary total elbow arthroplasty following failed internal fixation. The secondary objectives were to compare the complication rates and the radiographic results in the two groups. Our hypothesis was that the clinical results of total elbow arthroplasty performed secondarily to failed internal fixation were comparable to primary total elbow arthroplasty in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in the elderly population. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort comparison study, including 60 patients with a median age of 80 years (71-85), who either underwent a primary total elbow arthroplasty (group 1; 45 patients), or secondary total elbow arthroplasty following failed internal fixation (group 2; 15 patients), in the treatment of a post-traumatic supra and intercondylar fracture of the distal humerus, between January 2004 and January 2021. The clinical examination, including MEPS score and triceps proficiency test, complication rates and the need for re-operation were noted. The average clinical and radiographic follow-up was 40.8 months (24-120). ResultsThe clinical results of the two groups were comparable when looking at the MEPS score (90.00 [85.00, 100.00] p= 0.486). With regards to complications, there were 2 surgical site infections in group 1 and 3 in group 2 (p=0.099), 1 case of mechanical loosening of the humeral component in group 1 and 1 in group 2 (p= 0.448), and 1 patient with triceps insufficiency in group 1. ConclusionSecondary total elbow arthroplasty following failed internal fixation has shown good functional results, and a complication rate comparable to that of index total elbow arthroplasty in the treatment of articular fractures of the distal humerus in the elderly.

Weak Points of Double-Plate Stabilization Used in the Treatment of Distal Humerus Fracture through Finite Element Analysis.

Multi-comminuted, intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus still pose a challenge to modern orthopedics due to unsatisfactory treatment results and a high percentage (over 50%) of postoperative complications. When surgical treatment is chosen, such fractures are fixed using two plates with locking screws, which can be used in three spatial configurations: either parallel or one of two perpendicular variants (posterolateral and posteromedial). The evaluation of the fracture healing conditions for these plate configurations is unambiguous. The contradictions between the conclusions of biomechanical studies and clinical observations were the motivation to undertake a more in-depth biomechanical analysis aiming to indicate the weak points of two-plate fracture stabilization. Research was conducted using the finite element method based on an experimentally validated model. Three variants of distal humerus fracture (Y, λ, and H) were fixed using three different plate configurations (parallel, posterolateral, and posteromedial), and they were analyzed under six loading conditions, covering the whole range of flexion in the elbow joint (0-145°). A joint reaction force equal to 150 N was assumed, which corresponds with holding a weight of 1 kg in the hand. The biomechanical conditions of bone union were assessed based on the interfragmentary movement (IFM) and using criteria formulated by Steiner et al. Results: The IFMs were established for particular regions of all of the analyzed types of fracture, with distinction to the normal and tangential components. In general, the tangential component of IFM was greater than normal. A strong influence of the elbow joint's angular position on the IFM was observed, with excessive values occurring for flexion angles greater than 90°. In most cases, the smallest IFM values were obtained for the parallel plaiting, while the greatest values were obtained for the posteromedial plating. Based on IFM values, fracture healing conditions in particular cases (fracture type, plate configuration, loading condition, and fracture gap localization) were classified into one of four groups: optimal bone union (OPT), probable union (PU), probable non-union (PNU), and non-union (NU). No plating configuration is able to ensure distal humerus fracture union when the full elbow flexion is allowed while holding a weight of 1 kg in the hand. However, flexion in the range of 0-90° with such loadings is acceptable when using parallel plating, which is a positive finding in the context of the early rehabilitation process. In general, parallel plating ensures better conditions for fracture healing than perpendicular plate configurations, especially the posteromedial version.

Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty compared to total elbow replacement for distal humeral fractures: a registry analysis of 906 procedures

Total elbow replacement (TER) is an accepted treatment for complex intra-articular distal humerus fractures in elderly patients. Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty (HA) is also a potential surgical option for unreconstructable fractures and avoids the concerns regarding mechanical wear and functional restrictions associated with TER. In the current literature, there are limited data available to compare the revision rates of HA and TER for the treatment of fracture. We used data from a large national arthroplasty registry to compare the outcome of HA and TER undertaken for fracture/dislocation and to assess the impact of demographics and implant choice on revision rates. Data obtained from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry from May 2, 2005, to December 31, 2021, included all procedures for primary elbow replacement with primary diagnosis of fracture/dislocation. The analyses were performed using Kaplan-Meier estimates of survivorship and hazard ratios from Cox proportional hazards models. There were 293 primary HA and 631 primary TER procedures included. The cumulative percent revision (CPR) rate at 9 years was 9.7% for HA (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.0, 15.7), and 11.9% (95% CI 8.5, 16.6) for TER. When adjusted for age and gender, there was a significantly higher risk of revision after 3 months for TER compared to HA (HR=2.47 [95% CI 1.22, 5.03], p=0.012). There was no difference in the rate of revision for patients aged <55 years or ≥75 years when HA and TER procedures were compared. In primary TER procedures, loosening was the most common cause of revision (3.6% of primary TER procedures) and the most common type of revision in primary TER involved revision of the humeral component only (2.6% of TER procedures). TER has a higher rate of 1st revision for loosening compared to HA (HR=4.21(1.29, 13.73); p=0.017). In HA procedures instability (1.7%) was the most common cause for revision. The addition of an ulna component was the most common type of revision (2.4% of all HA procedures). For the treatment of distal humerus fractures, HA had a lower revision rate than TER after 3 months when adjusted for age and gender. Age <55 or ≥75 years was not a risk factor for revision when HA is compared to TER. Loosening leading to revision is more prevalent in TER and increases with time. In HA, the most common type of revision involved addition of an ulna component with preservation of the humeral component.

Low risk of postoperative ulnar nerve affection in surgically treated distal humeral fractures when the nerve is released in situ.

Adult distal humeral fractures (DHF) comprise 2%-5% of all fractures and 30% of all elbow fractures. Treatment of DHF may be technically demanding due to fracture complexity and proximity of neurovascular structures. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) are often the treatment of choice, but arthroplasty is considered in case of severe comminution or in elderly patients with poor bone quality. Ulnar nerve affection following surgical treatment of distal humerus fractures is a well-recognized complication. To report the risk of ulnar nerve affection after surgery for acute DHFs. We retrospectively identified 239 consecutive adult patients with acute DHFs who underwent surgery with ORIF, elbow hemiarthroplasty (EHA) or total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) between January 2011 and December 2019. In all cases, the ulnar nerve was released in situ without anterior transposition. We used our institutional database to review patients' medical records for demographics, fracture morphology, type of surgery and ulnar nerve affection immediately; records were reviewed after surgery and at 2 wk and 12 wk of routine clinical outpatient follow-up. Twenty-nine percent patients were excluded due to pre- or postoperative conditions. Final follow-up examination was a telephone interview in which ulnar nerve affection was reported according to the McGowen Classification Score. A total of 210 patients were eligible for interview, but 13 patients declined participation and 17 patients failed to respond. Thus, 180 patients were included. Mean age at surgery was 64 years (range 18-88 years); 121 (67.3%) patients were women; 59 (32.7%) were men. According to the AO/OTA classification system, we recorded 47 patients with type A3, 55 patients with type B and 78 patients with type C fractures. According to the McGowen Classification Score, mild ulnar nerve affection was reported in nine patients; severe affection, in two. A total of 69 patients were treated with ORIF of whom three had mild temporary ulnar nerve affection and one had severe ulnar nerve affection. In all, 111 patients were treated with arthroplasty (67 EHA, 44 TEA) of whom seven had mild ulnar nerve affection and one had severe persistent ulnar nerve affection. No further treatment was provided. The risk of ulnar nerve affection after surgical treatment for acute DHF is low when the ulnar nerve is released in situ without nerve transposition, independently of the treatment provided.

Outcomes After Acute Versus Delayed Total Elbow Arthroplasty for the Treatment of Distal Humerus Fractures

Compare outcomes of acute versus delayed total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) following distal humerus fractures (DHF). This retrospective study included 39 patients who underwent primary TEA with semiconstrained implants for DHF, either within 4 weeks of their injury or after failing initial open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or nonsurgical management, between June 1, 2003 and February 1, 2018 with minimum 1-year follow-up. Our outcome measures included QuickDASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) score, complications, reoperations, and range of motion (ROM). Demographics, clinical variables, and outcomes were compared using the Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Fisher's exact test as appropriate. Kaplan-Meier curves for mortality, implant survivorship, and reoperation were created. Our patients were categorized into acute TEA (n= 22), ORIF to TEA (n= 10), and nonsurgical to TEA (n= 7) treatment groups. Additional analysis was performed comparing acute to delayed TEA, which combined data from failed ORIF and nonsurgical cohorts. The median follow-up, average age, and median Charlson comorbility index were similar between groups. The most common fracture pattern was AO13C. At median follow-up of 5.8 years, QuickDASH differed between cohorts: mean of 31 (SD 19) in acute TEA and 52 (SD 27) in delayed TEA, which further subdivided to 44.2 (SD 25) in failed ORIF and 76 (SD 23) in failed nonsurgical management. Poorer QuickDASH scores at final follow-up were associated with delayed TEA, initial nonsurgical management, and depression. Surgical complications were associated with delayed TEA. Higher Charlson comorbidity index was associated with death. No variables were associated significantly with ROM, revision, or reoperation. Comminuted DHFs are difficult to treat in the elderly with high rates of complication and poor function after surgery. Our study suggests TEA performed acutely result in satisfactory outcomes and should be a consideration for patients at high risk of failing ORIF or nonsurgical management. Therapeutic, III.

Ulnar Nerve Transposition Is Justified in the Treatment of Distal Humerus Fracture

Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. Reprints: Jonathan Barlow MD, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905 (e-mail: [email protected]) The author reports no conflict of interest.

Complications of Early Versus Delayed Total Elbow Arthroplasty for the Treatment of Distal Humerus Fractures

The purpose of this study was to compare the rates of wound complications and heterotopic ossification (HO) between patients who underwent acute total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) and those who underwent delayed TEA performed for the treatment of distal humerus fractures. Our hypothesis was that delayed surgery will have fewer wound complications but a higher rate of HO. We retrospectively reviewed 104 patients who had undergone TEA performed at 1 of 3 institutions following a distal humerus fracture. The acute cohort, comprising 69 patients, underwent TEA within 2 weeks; the delayed cohort, comprising 35 patients, received treatment between 2 weeks and 6 months. The rates of wound complications, HO, clinically relevant HO (requiring excision or resulting in loss of functional range of motion), and reoperation were recorded. These patients were followed up for an average of 52 (interquartile range, 18.5-117) weeks. Wound complications occurred in 10 patients (14.5%) in the early group and 7 (20.0%) in the delayed group. The overall rate of HO was 56.7% (59 patients). The rate of clinically relevant HO was 26.0% (27 patients), which was similar between the groups. Reoperation occurred in 20 patients (19.2%), which was similar between the groups. In the early group, 3 reoperations were performed for wound complications and 4 for HO. No patients required reoperation for these indications in the delayed group. The mean flexion-extension and supination-pronation arcs were 20°-130° and 80°-80°, respectively, which were similar between the groups. Rheumatoid arthritis and younger age were associated with increased odds of wound complications and reoperation. The rates of reoperation, wound complications, and HO were overall higher than those previously reported; however, the study was underpowered to determine a difference between early and delayed treatment. Therapeutic IV.

Combined use of minimal screw synthesis and external articulated fixation is effective for the management of supra-intercondyloid humeral fractures in the elderly? A retrospective study

BackgroundFractures of the distal humerus are relatively rare and can be a source of disabling outcomes especially if not properly treated. Therefore, the objective of the treatment must be to obtain a stable synthesis that allows early mobilization, avoiding complications such as muscular hypotonotrophy, joint rigidity or delays in consolidation that may be due to prolonged immobilization of this joint. Although ORIF treatment of these fractures may intuitively appear to be the gold standard, there is still no consensus in the literature on which type of treatment is most suitable. Patients and methodWe report in this retrospective case series analysis our experience on 31 elder patients (more than 65 years old), affected by a supra-intercondyloid humerus fracture, treated using a minimal internal fixation with cannulated screws combined with the use of an external articulated elbow fixator. This methodology is less invasive but allows a stable synthesis and an early mobilization.Clinical and radiographic examinations were performed for each patient at 1, 2, 3 and 6 months after surgery. At 6 months the residual joint excursion was evaluated and the data were collected. In addition, at 6 months, each patient underwent three different functional capacity assessment questionnaires: MAYO Elbow Performance score, The Disability of the ARM, Shoulder and Hand Score (QuickDASH) and Oxford Elbow Score. ResultsThe healing rate was 100% with no cases of non-union, despite the old age of our patients. The average range of motions obtained at 6 months from the surgery was 111° in flexion-extension and 157° in pronation-supination for the patient with an extra-articular fracture, 88° in flexion-extension and 153° in pronation-supination for the patients with a partial articular fracture and 85° in flexion-extension and 149° in pronation-supination for the patients with a complete articular fracture. Our results in the recovery of an arc of motion in flexion-extension are slightly less performing than the results obtained with an ORIF treatment. Indeed, according to literature the mean postoperative flexion arc in an ORIF treatment of distal humerus fractures in adults is 110°.The functional results obtained were satisfactory, with an average score at 6 months from the surgery of 95/100 (Mayo score) for the patients with an extra-articular fracture, 83.3/100 for the patients with a partial articular fracture and 79/100 for the patients with a complete articular fracture. ConclusionThe results obtained, in terms of range of motions, function, pain and healing and complications rate lead us to affirm that, in selected patients, this technique can represent a valid treatment and therefore a valid option that could be considered.

Hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of distal humerus fractures: long-term clinical results.

Total elbow arthroplasty is a treatment for unreconstructable distal humerus fractures; implant longevity remains a concern, especially in younger patients. However, distal humeral hemiarthroplasty (DHH) offers an alternative with potential long-term advantages. This is a retrospective study of 10 patients who underwent DHH for distal humerus fractures over a 4-year period (2008-2012) by a single surgeon. Patients underwent testing of range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (DASH), visual analog scale (VAS), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), Simple Shoulder Test, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) scores. Average patient age at surgery was 71.9 years (range 56-81 years); average follow-up was 115.2 months (range 96-144 months). Patients maintained improvements in MEPS (mean 88, range 75-100) and DASH scores (mean 37.1, range 11.21-55.09), along with no statistically significant decrease in range of motion or scores in comparison to either short- or midterm results. Mean VAS score was 2.2 (range 0-7), SANE 69 (range 55-85), ASES 76.66 (range 51.67-100), and CCI 4.3 (range 1-7). Participants had an average flexion of 126° (range: 90°-140°), extension of 36° (range: 30°-45°), supination of 66° (range: 60°-70°), and pronation of 64° (range: 45°-80°). No elbow dislocations, subluxations, or heterotopic ossification were observed. Complications included 1 fracture and 1 complaint of prominent hardware. Four patients were deceased, and 1 patient was lost to follow-up. This long-term review suggests that DHH may be an effective treatment for certain distal humerus fractures. The data suggest that elbow range of motion and functional use are maintained from comparison with short- and midterm studies, with no appreciable change in radiographic cartilage wear along the radius or ulna.

A systematic review of the treatment of distal humerus fractures in older adults: A comparison of surgical and non-surgical options.

Fractures of the distal humerus are a common fragility fracture in older adults. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature to produce pooled estimates of the outcomes of treatment using total elbow arthroplasty (TEA), open reduction and locking plate fixation (ORIF), hemiarthroplasty or with conservative management. A systematic review of PUBMED and EMBASE databases was conducted for studies reporting outcomes of intra-articular fractures in older adults. Data extracted included patient-reported outcome measures as well as clinical outcomes including ROM, adverse events and all-cause reoperation rates. Forty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria and included 1838 acute, intra-articular distal humeral fractures. There was no clinically important difference in patient-reported pain and function measured on the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (TEA = 89.3 (SD 20.0), Hemi = 88.4 (SD 10.6), internal fixation = 85.0 (SD 14.7), non-operative = 85.1 (SD 11.0)). Each of the treatment modalities studies resulted in a reasonable level of elbow function. The included studies were largely non-comparative and at considerable risk of bias. As elbow replacement surgery becomes centralised in the UK, there is a real need for high-quality comparative research studies to inform practice.

Results of surgical treatment of distal humerus fractures in adults in Cotonou

Background: Fractures of the distal humerus represent 1.3% of fractures in Cotonou. Their treatment is often surgical. The aim of this work was to assess the results of their osteosynthesis in a disadvantaged environment.Methods: This retrospective study from 2001 to 2015 included 38 operated patients for distal humerus fracture with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. The average age was 33.6 years; the predominance was male (27 cases). The major etiology was traffic accidents (31 cases), According to the AO classification, the fractures were type A (10 cases), type B (02 cases) and type C (26 cases). The average time of surgery was 21 days. The Lecestre plate was the most used (29 cases). An iliac cortico-cancellous graft was used in 03 cases. The mean hospital stay was 20 days.Results: The mean follow-up was 37 months. Functionally, the mean Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) score was 66.3 points. The results were excellent (08 cases), good (13 cases), average (10 cases) and bad (7 cases). The patients were satisfied or very satisfied in 29 cases. Radiographically, the reduction was anatomical in 34 cases. Anatomical reductions were obtained with Lecestre plates. Consolidation was achieved in 36 cases within an average of 9 weeks. As complications we noted: radial nerve paresis (03 cases); secondary displacement (02 cases); superficial infection of the operating site (02 cases), wire migration or screw retraction (05 cases), non-union (03 cases), malunion in varus (04 cases) and osteitis of the proximal ulna (01 case).Conclusions: Fractures of the distal humerus are infrequent. The anatomical and functional results despite little technical support provided and the long delay before surgery are quite good.

Nonoperative treatment of distal humerus fractures in the elderly yields satisfactory functional outcomes and low conversion to delayed surgery: a systematic review

Distal humerus fractures (DHFs) pose a treatment challenge in elderly patients. We sought to systematically review and report the clinical outcomes of the nonoperative approach (eg, "bag of bones") for the treatment of these injuries and the rate of conversion to delayed surgery. A comprehensive review of the literature using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines was conducted. Studies involving outcomes after nonoperative treatment of DHF in patients >65 years of age were included from 1985 to present. Data regarding patient age, DHF type, nonoperative treatment method, complications, conversion to delayed surgery, range of motion, union rate, and surgeon- and patient-reported outcome measures were extracted. A total of five studies met inclusion criteria (all level IV evidence), yielding a total of 143 patients (mean age: 73.5 years to 87.4 years) with 7.1 months to 55 months of follow-up. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Index scores were good to excellent across several studies (range 83-93.1). Multiple studies reported good range of motion (mean arc of motion: 81 to 106 degrees) and low levels of upper extremity disability (mean Quick Disability of the Arm-Shoulder-Hand scores: 31.3 to 38.5) at the final follow-up. The rate of conversion to total elbow arthroplasty and operative fixation ranged from 0% to 7.5% and 0% to 5%, respectively. Nonoperative management of distal humerus fractures in the elderly seems to be associated with acceptable functional outcomes and low rates of delayed surgery. This information is important for patient counseling and treatment decision-making.

Clinical and radiological results of three different techniques for fixation of the olecranon osteotomy in the surgical treatment of distal humerus fractures: A retrospective comparison of plate-screw, tension band and intramedullary nail.

The aim of this study was to compare clinical and radiological results of three different techniques (plate-screw, tension band, and intramedullary nail) in the fixation of olecranon osteotomy in patients with intercondylar fracture of the distal humerus surgically treated by the olecranon osteotomy approach. Between January 2010 and December 2018, the study was initiated with 52 patients who underwent an olecranon osteotomy approach for an AO Type C distal humerus fracture. Thirty-seven patients (19 male, 18 female) who had regular control data and a final control examination were included in the study. In osteotomy fixation, we used tension band (K wire cerclage + Screw cerclage) in 20 patients, plate-screw in eight patients, and intramedullary nail fixation in nine patients. The functional evaluation included a measurement of the range of joint motion (flexion, extension, supination, pronation); MAYO elbow performance score; disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score; and comparative grip strength measurement, and a subjective pain assessment was performed using the visual analogue scale. The mean duration of follow-up was 44 (12-84) months. The mean time to union was 14 (7-32) weeks in patients that achieved union. The mean DASH score was 22 (0-72.7), the meanMAYOelbow performance score was 84 (35-100), and the mean VAS score was 3 (1-7). The mean grip strength was 32 (8-64) kgw in the treated extremity and 37 (17-70) kgw in the intact extremity. No statistically significant difference was detected between olecranon osteotomy fixation methods (tension band, plate-screw osteosynthesis, and intramedullary nailing) in terms of union time, DASH score, MAYO scale score, VAS score, extension, supination, and pronation (P > 0.05). The average grip strength (kgw) was lower than that in the uninvolved extremity, and this ratio was statistically significant (P = 0.04). The results of this study have shown that successful and comparable radiological and functional outcomes can be obtained by all the three different olecranon osteotomy techniques in the surgical treatment of intercondylar fracture of the distal humerus. Level III, Therapeutic Study.

Treatment of patients with complicated fractures of the distal humerus using the fixators of limited-contact multiplanar osteosynthesis

Treatment of distal humerus fractures is a complex problem in traumatology. The result of treatment depends on the choice of fixator according to the fracture area. Objective. To improve the techno­logy of treatment in patients with complicated distal humerus fractures with fixators of small contact and multiplanar osteosynthesis and to evaluate its efficacy. Methods. 39 patients were treated for the period 2000–2020 with distal humerus nonunion (types 12-B1, 12-C1, 12-C2) and 23 patients with complicated above- and transcondylar humerus fractures (types 13-A2, 13-C1, 13-C2). Fixation of bone fragments of the distal humerus was made with device for fixation (Patent 17502 UA). It is a shaped plate with a groove on which half rings with threaded holes are stabilized. For the osteosynthesis of above- and transcondylar humerus fractures we used V-shaped plate with the possibility to regulate branch spreading width as for the condylar size (Patent 33358 UA). Autografting was performed as for necessity. Results. Plate osteosynthesis was performed mainly through anterior approach with minimal tissues traumatization. Release of radial nerve we made as for necessity. This device provides the stable fixation even in a case of short distal fragment. Device for bone fragments fixation was placed on the posterior condylar surface and lower part of the humerus through olecranon osteotomy. Osteosynthesis with suggested device is one of the options with bone autografting and can be method of choice at repeated surgery. Follow-up period was 1–2 years and later. In 60 patients we obtained good results with completed bone union. Conclusions. Suggested device can be used in cases of distal humerus nonunion. It allows to decrease the damage of surgery, to avoid many complications. Key words. Complicated fractures of the distal humerus, devices for limited-contact multiplanar osteosynthesis.

Treatment trends in distal humerus fractures between ABOS part II candidates

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to determine how fellowship training influences the treatment of distal humerus fractures with either total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) or open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). MethodsThe American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) Part II Examination Database was queried for all orthopaedic surgeons who sat for the Part II examination between the years 2003-2019. Inclusion criteria were ORIF or TEA cases, selected by individual CPT codes for each procedure, and patients of at least age 65 years who sustained acute distal humerus fractures. Analysis was performed for each type of fellowship training completed, total number of procedures performed, the type of procedure performed, patient demographics, and any complications. ResultsThere were 149 TEAs and 1306 ORIFs performed for distal humerus fractures between the exam years of 2003-2019. The proportion of TEA to ORIF increased from 7.6% to 11.0%. Partitioned by fellowship training, Hand and Upper Extremity surgeons performed 69 (17.4%) TEAs and 328 (82.6%) ORIFs, Shoulder and Elbow surgeons performed 34 (29.6%) TEAs and 81 (70.4%) ORIFs, Sports Medicine surgeons performed 14 (5.1%) TEAs and 263 (94.6%) ORIFs, and Trauma surgeons performed 16 (4.2%) TEAs and 366 (95.8%) ORIFs. Hand and Upper Extremity surgeons treated the most distal humerus fractures (397, 27.3%), followed by Trauma surgeons (382, 26.3%). ConclusionOur data suggests that fellowship training does influence the surgical decision-making process for treating distal humerus fractures in elderly populations. Hand and Upper Extremity surgeons performed the greatest number of TEA for acute distal humerus fractures, followed by Shoulder and Elbow surgeons. Conversely, trauma surgeons performed the lowest proportion of TEA to ORIF. Level of EvidenceIII.

A custom-made distal humerus plate fabricated by selective laser melting

This study aims to evaluate the mechanical performance of custom 3D-printed titanium plates in the treatment of distal humerus fractures. Rigidity of four plating configurations were investigated by finite element analysis. The results reveal that implementation of custom designs with minimal screw holes, lateral-medial linking screw and lateral brim could significantly improve stiffness and consequently leads to better biomechanical stability as compared to standard osteosynthesis design. Biomechanical testing was also performed to validate practical usability. The results confirm that newly designed custom plates fabricated by selective laser melting is a possible alternative for the treatment of distal humerus fracture.

Number of screws in the articular segment of distal humerus AO/OTA C-type fractures treated with open reduction internal fixation is associated with complication rate.

Introduction: Surgical treatment of distal humerus fractures can lead to numerous complications. Data suggest that the number of screws in the distal (articular) segment may be associated with complication rate. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association between a number of screws in the distal segment and complication rate for surgical treatment of distal humerus fractures. We hypothesize that the number of screws in the articular segment of distal humerus AO/OTA C-type fractures treated with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) will be inversely proportional to the complication rate. Methods: We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study of 27 patients who underwent ORIF of distal humerus fractures C-type with at least six months of radiographic and clinical follow-up. Clinical outcomes including a range of motion, pain, revision surgery for stiffness and/or heterotopic ossification (HO), nonunion, and persistent ulnar nerve symptoms requiring revision neurolysis were recorded. Results: In C-type fractures, the use of three or fewer articular screws was significantly associated with nonunion or loss of fixation (RR 17, p = 0.006). Nineteen of 36 (53%) patients experienced at least one complication. The surgical approach, plate configuration, age, and ulnar nerve treatment (none, in situ release, transposition) were not associated with the need for revision surgery. Men had a higher risk of requiring surgical contracture release due to improving post-operative stiffness (RR 12, p = 0.02). Conclusion: In this retrospective study, the use of three or fewer screws to fix articular fragments in AO type C fractures was a significant risk for nonunion or loss of fixation. Plate configuration and surgical approach did not correlate with outcomes. Men had higher rates of complications and required more frequent revision surgery compared to women.

Surgical treatment of distal humerus fractures

Surgical treatment of distal humerus fractures

A Comparison Between Transolecranon and Triceps Reflecting Approaches for Treatment of Distal Humerus Fracture in Adult

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of patients with distal humerus fractures in adults, treated with triceps-reflecting and olecranon osteotomy approaches. Outcome in terms of: (l) Accuracy of articular reduction, (2) Operative time, (3) Blood loss, (4) Functional result and (5) Immediate, early and late complications were compared. Methods: Thirty three patients with distal humerus fractures were analyzed prospective and retrospectively. 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 accuracy of articular reduction is better in olecranon osteotomy (Group-A) than the Triceps reflecting (Group-B) approach. The average time taken from incision to wound closure was 92.62 ± 8.73 minutes for group A and 78.63 ± 7.02 minutes for Group B, the P value being &lt;0.001 which was statistically highly significant. The average blood loss from incision to wound closure was 222.78 ± 34.93 ml for group-A and 121.61 ± 19.85 ml for group-B, the P value being &lt;0.01 which was also statistically highly significant. The mean arc of motion in patients of group A was 91.04° ± 13.55° and in group B was 92.65° ± 19.07°. The difference in range of motion was statistically insignificant. On comparing the mean MEPS and DASH score in group A and group B was also found non significant (P value for both &gt;0.05). The complications like, soft tissue infection, ulnar nerve neuropraxia and implant prominence where observed more in trans olecranon group. Conclusion: Triceps reflecting approach provide lesser operating time, lesser blood loss, low complications rates. On the other hand olecranon osteotomy provide better accuracy of articular reduction (can be reserve for C3 fracture). There were no significant difference between the two groups in term of functional outcome, although second surgery for hardware removal was required in almost all cases of olecranon osteotomy group patients. olecranon osteotomy was use in 21 patients (group A, 10 female, 11 male with mean age 43.23 years) and triceps reflecting approach was used in 12 patient (group B, 6 female, 6 male with mean age 35.83 years).