Primary total elbow replacement for complex intra-articular distal humerus fractures

Open reduction and internal fixation of multifragmentary intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus often do not provide satisfactory results in elderly patients with osteoporosis. From December 2001 to January 2008 a total elbow arthroplasty (Coonrad-Morrey, Zimmer, USA) was performed on 12 pa...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Der Unfallchirurg 2009-08, Vol.112 (8), p.692-698
Main Authors: Kraus, E, Harstall, R, Borisch, N, Weber, D
Format: Article
Language:ger
Subjects:
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Elbow Joint - injuries
Elbow Joint - surgery
Female
Fracture Healing
Humans
Humeral Fractures - surgery
Joint Prosthesis
Male
Middle Aged
Prosthesis Implantation - methods
Range of Motion, Articular
Recovery of Function
Treatment Outcome
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Summary:Open reduction and internal fixation of multifragmentary intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus often do not provide satisfactory results in elderly patients with osteoporosis. From December 2001 to January 2008 a total elbow arthroplasty (Coonrad-Morrey, Zimmer, USA) was performed on 12 patients (average age 81+/-9 ears) who presented with a type C distal humeral fracture. The mean time of follow-up with clinical and radiological assessment was 28+/-17 months. The Mayo score showed a good functional result with an average of 81+/-9 out of 100. DASH and SECEC scores showed a fair result with respect to elbow function (43+/-8 and 68+/-7 points, respectively). The average range of motion of all patients was 120-33-0 degrees. Heterotopic ossifications were found by X-ray examination in 4 cases and asymptomatic radiolucent lines in 4 cases. Primary total elbow arthroplasty for complex intra-articular distal humerus fractures in elderly patients has good functional results and is an alternative to osteosynthesis.
ISSN:1433-044X
DOI:10.1007/s00113-009-1660-8