双钢板内固定与入工全肘关节置换术治疗老年肱骨髁间C型骨折的早期疗效比较

目的 比较老年肱骨髁间C型骨折应用双钢板内固定与人工全肘关节置换术的疗效.方法 2003年4月至2009年9月,采用双钢板内固定或人工全肘关节置换术治疗新鲜老年肱骨髁间骨折42例,骨折分型均为AO分型C型.对其中随访资料较完整的22例进行回顾性分析.双钢板内固定10例,男5例,女5例;年龄60～70岁,平均63.2岁;1例Gustilo Ⅰ型开放骨折,余9例均为闭合性骨折.人工全肘关节置换术12例,均为女性;年龄60～74岁,平均65.2岁;均为闭合性骨折.术后1、2、3、6个月、1年进行复查,之后每年复查1次.采用Mayo肘关节功能评分(Mayo elbow performance score,MEPS)进行评估,观察术后肘关节屈伸活动度、功能评分、优良率及并发症.结果 双钢板内固定组随访8～56个月,平均27.6个月;人工全肘关节置换组随访15～54个月,平均28.2个月.双钢板内固定组平均屈伸范围84.5°,人工全肘关节置换组平均屈伸范围107.5°,两组比较差异有统计学意义(P=0.007);双钢板内固定组MEPS评分平均75.5分,人工全肘关节置换组平均87.9分,两组比较差异有统计学意义(P=0.047);双钢板内固定组MEPS优良率60%,人工全肘关节置换组MEPS优良率83.3%,两组比较差异无统计学意义(P=0.348).双钢板内固定组术后并发症包括2例尺神经炎,2例异位骨化;人工全肘关节置换组术后并发症包括1例尺神经炎,1例肱三头肌肌力减弱,1例异位骨化.结论 对老年肱骨髁间C型骨折,一期行人工全肘关节置换术较双钢板内固定能获得更好的疗效.

Abstract：

Objective To compare the clinical outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) for type C inter-condylar fractures of the distal humerus in the elderly. Methods Twenty-two patients who were treated with ORIF or TEA from April 2003 to September 2009 were included in the study. All fractures were OTA classification 13C. Among them, 10 patients who were treated with ORIF were follow up for 8-56 months, while 12 patients who were treated with TEA were followed up for 15-54 months. The Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) and the complications were compared. Results Using the MEPS, there were 2 in excellent, 4 in good, 4 in fair in the patients treated with ORIF. Complications included heterotopic ossifications (2 cases) and ulnar nerve dysfunction (2 cases).There were 6 in excellent, 4 in good, 2 in fair in the patients treated with TEA. Complications included 1heterotopic ossification (1 case), ulnar nerve dysfunction (1 case), the weakness of musculus triceps brachii (1 case). The patients treated with TEA had significantly better range of motion (107.5° vs 84.5°, P=0.007),also had better MEPS (87.9 vs 75.5, P=0.047) than those with ORIF had ones. Conclusion TEA is a liable option for type C inter-condylar fractures of the distal humerus in the elderly.     

Linked total elbow arthroplasty as treatment of distal humerus nonunions in patients older than 70 years

Treatment of distal humerus nonunions may be challenging, especially in the elderly patient. Total elbow replacement has been proposed as an option in selected patients, but a high index of complications has been reported. We present the results of a linked elbow replacement in six patients older than 70 years with a symptomatic nonunion of the distal humerus. At a mean follow-up of 40 months, average range of motion was from 15 degrees to 125 degrees of flexion-extension. Only one patient had moderate pain in the elbow, but all six were satisfied with the results of the operation. The arthroplasty allowed all patients to do basic tasks of daily living activities. Our results are encouraging, and show that linked elbow replacement is a good option in elderly patients with symptomatic nonunions of the distal humerus. Appropriate selection of ideal candidates for this procedure is a key factor in reducing the risk of complications.     

Outcomes for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty after failed open reduction internal fixation versus primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures

BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to determine the clinical and radiographic outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) after failed open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for proximal humerus fracture (PHF) and compare them to outcomes of primary RTSA for PHF.MethodsWe performed a retrospective comparative study of patients who underwent RTSA between 2008 and 2015 at our institution by one of two fellowship-trained shoulder and elbow surgeons for an acute PHF or for continued pain or functional limitations following ORIF of a PHF. We compared the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, Simple Shoulder Test (SST) scores, range-of-motion, and radiographic measurements between cohorts.ResultsIn total, there were 20 patients treated with RTSA after failed ORIF and 30 patients treated acutely with RTSA for PHF. The average ASES score was significantly greater for primary RTSA (82.0 ± 13.5) than for delayed RTSA (64.0 ± 27.2, P = 0.016). The average SST score for primary RTSA (69.4%±19.1%) was significantly higher than the average for delayed RTSA (49.1%±8.9%, P = 0.020). Forward elevation achieved postoperatively was significantly greater for patients treated with primary RTSA versus those with delayed RTSA (130±31° vs 107±31°, P = 0.035). No difference was detected between groups in postoperative external rotation (P = 0.152) or internal rotation (P = 0.872). Radiographically, the tuberosities healed in an anatomic position in 70% of the primary cases versus the prior ORIF group in which the tuberosities were in an anatomic position in all cases (P = 0.007).ConclusionsIn an elderly population, primary RTSA for PHF resulted in better clinical outcomes compared to RTSA following failed ORIF in this retrospective cohort study.Level of EvidenceLevel III; Retrospective Comparative Study     

Unlinked elbow arthroplasty as primary treatment for fractures of the distal humerus

This study reviews our experience with primary total elbow arthroplasty in the management of acute distal humeral fractures by use of the iBP unlinked elbow prosthesis. We followed up 9 elbows in 9 patients (including 2 with rheumatoid arthritis), with a mean age of 73 years, for a mean of 3.5 years. Functional outcome was assessed with the Mayo Elbow Performance Score and the recently developed Liverpool Elbow Score. Clinical examination and radiologic assessment were performed by an independent surgeon. All elbows were stable at the latest follow-up examination, all patients were able to perform daily activities, and pain relief was satisfactory. The median value for the Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 95 (range, 65-100). This is the first report of the use of an unlinked prosthesis for the treatment of distal humeral fractures. Our results show that this method of treatment provides a reliable and effective way of dealing with these very difficult fractures when internal fixation is not a viable option.     

Primary total elbow arthroplasty in complex fractures of the distal humerus

AIM: To evaluate short- to medium term outcome of total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) in complex fractures of the distal humerus.METHODS: A consecutive series of 24 complex distal humerus fractures operated with TEA in the period 2006-2012 was evaluated with the Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS), plain radiographs, complications and overall satisfaction. The indications for surgery were 1: AO type B3 or C3 or Sheffield type 3 fracture and age above 65 or 2: fracture and severe rheumatoid arthritis. Mean follow-up time was 21 mo.RESULTS: Twenty patients were followed up. Four patients, of which 3 had died, were lost to follow up. According to the AO classification there were 17 C3, 1 B2 and 2 A2 fractures. Mean follow-up was 21 months (range 4-54). Mean MEPS was 94 (range 65-100). Mean flexion was 114 degrees (range 80-140). According to MEPS there were 15 excellent, 4 good and 1 fair result. Patient satisfaction: 8 excellent, 10 good, 2 fair and 1 poor. There were two revisions due to infection treated successfully with revision and three months of antibiotics. In two patients the locking split had loosened. One was referred to re-insertion and one chose yearly controls. Two patients had persistent dysaesthesia of their 5th finger, but were able to discriminate between sharp and blunt.CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that TEA in complex fractures of the distal humerus in elderly patients can result in acceptable short- to medium term outcome.     

切开复位解剖型钢板内固定治疗肱骨远端骨折

[目的]探讨采用切开复位解剖型钢板（“Y”形）内固定治疗肱骨远端骨折的临床疗效。[方法]2001年2月-2006年4月采用切开复位解剖型钢板（“Y”形）内固定治疗肱骨远端骨折共22例，采用尺骨鹰嘴截骨方法显露肱骨远端及关节面骨折者11例，采用肱三头肌舌形瓣方法显露骨折者11例。术后常规中药熏洗、CPM机训练、手法等综合治疗。[结果]22例患者随访时间均超过1a，平均28个月（13—32个月），骨折全部愈合，平均愈合时间为5．7个月（4～10个月），根据Mayo肘关节功能评估指数，结果：优9例（40．9％），良7例（31．81％）。[结论]切开复位解剖型钢板（“Y”形）内固定治疗肱骨远端骨折，固定可靠，为术后早期进行功能锻炼创造了条件；术后早期开始个体化患肢功能锻炼，结合中药熏洗、CPM训练、手法等方法可获得满意疗效。     

Open reduction and internal fixation alone versus open reduction and internal fixation plus total hip arthroplasty for displaced acetabular fractures in patients older than 60 years: A prospective clinical trial

IntroductionThe optimal treatment of elderly patients with an acetabular fracture is unknown. We conducted a prospective clinical trial to compare functional outcomes and reoperation rates in patients older than 60 years with acetabular fracture treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) alone versus ORIF plus concomitant total hip arthroplasty (ORIF + THA). Our hypothesis was that patients who had ORIF + THA would have better patient reported outcomes and lower reoperation rates postoperatively.MethodsInclusion criteria were patients older than 60 years with acetabular fracture plus at least one of three fracture characteristics: dome impaction, femoral head fracture, or posterior wall component. Eligible patients were operative candidates based on fracture displacement, ambulatory status, and physiological appropriateness. Patients received either ORIF alone or ORIF + THA (accomplished at same surgery through same incision). Outcome measurements included Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index hip score, Short Form 36, Harris Hip Score, and Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form scores. Additionally, patients were monitored for any unplanned reoperation within 2 years.ResultsForty-seven of 165 eligible patients with an average age of 70.7 years were included. The mean Harris Hip Score difference favored ORIF + THA (mean difference, 12.3, [95% confidence interval (CI), -0.3 to 24.9, p = 0.07]). No clinically important differences were detected in any other validated outcome score or patient satisfaction score 1 year after surgery. ORIF + THA decreased the absolute risk of reoperation by 28% (95% CI, 13% to 44%, p < 0.01). No postoperative hip dislocation occurred in either group.ConclusionsIn patients older than 60 years with an operative displaced acetabular fracture with specific fracture features (dome impaction, femoral head fracture, or posterior wall component), treatment with ORIF + THA resulted in fewer reoperations than treatment with ORIF alone. No differences in patient satisfaction and other validated outcome measures were detected.     

Results of total elbow arthroplasty in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in elderly Asian patients

BACKGROUND: Distal humerus fractures in elderly patients are difficult to treat as these fractures are often complicated by varying degrees of comminution intra-articular involvement and osteoporosis. We retrospectively reviewed the results of primary total elbow arthroplasty in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in seven patients followed for a minimum of 1 year. METHODS: Between July 2000 and June 2002, seven patients with distal humerus fractures were treated electively with total elbow arthroplasty using the semiconstrained Coonrad-Moorey elbow replacement prostheses. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score was used to assess the outcomes. RESULTS: The mean age of our patients was 72.9 years. The mean duration of postoperative hospitalization stay was 7.6 days. The average length of follow up was 24.9 months. Six of these patients had no pain, and one patient had mild pain. The mean arc of flexion was 88.6 degrees. Six elbows had excellent results, while 1 elbow had good result. The mean Mayo score was 94.3 points. One elbow developed blisters postoperatively but resolved with dressings and antibiotics. CONCLUSIONS: Our review suggests that total elbow arthroplasty can give good to excellent short term results when used in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in elderly Asian patients.     

切开复位双钢板内固定治疗老年人肱骨远端骨折

目的评价切开复位内固定治疗老年人肱骨远端骨折的效果.方法1998年4月～2002年10月,采用切开复位双钢板螺钉内固定治疗老年人肱骨远端骨折24例.患者平均年龄为69.4岁(65～72岁).根据AO分型,其中A型2例,B型8例,C型14例.结果术后随访13～32个月,平均28个月.根据Cassebaum评分,结果优7例、良好12例、中4例、差1例.根据Morrey-Chao评分,结果优10例(41.67%),良14例(58.33%).骨折愈合时间平均为10周.结论切开复位内固定治疗老年人肱骨远端骨折能达到良好的临床效果.     

Comparison of functional outcomes of total elbow arthroplasty vs plate fixation for distal humerus fractures in osteoporotic elbows

Treating intra-articular fractures about the osteoporotic distal humerus poses a significant challenge. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate functional outcomes for distal humeral fractures treated with total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in a nonarthritic elderly population with osteoporosis. We reviewed the records of all women older than age 60 who had undergone surgical treatment for intraarticular distal humerus fractures (Orthopaedic Trauma Association types 13B and 13C) by 1 of 2 surgeons. Demographic and operative data were obtained, charts were reviewed, and patients were asked to have their outcomes evaluated with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI). Twenty-two patients (23 elbows) were identified, and 2 of these (3 elbows) were excluded. Of the remaining 20 patients, 9 had undergone cemented, semiconstrained TEA as initial treatment, and 11 had undergone ORIF. These 2 groups were compared. Mean follow-up was 14.8 months (range, 6-38 months). There were no significant differences between the TEA and ORIF groups with respect to demographic factors. Final elbow range of motion was 92° flexion-extension arc (arthroplasty group) and 98° (fixation group). Two patients in the arthroplasty group and 2 in the fixation group died. For the remaining patients, mean DASH scores were 30.2 (arthroplasty) and 32.1 (fixation), and mean MEPI scores were 79 (arthroplasty) and 85 (fixation). These differences were not statistically significant. Four TEAs developed radiographic loosening by a mean of 15 months, and 1 of these underwent revision with good outcome. Ten of the 11 fractures in the fixation group healed radiographically; the 1 nonunion with collapse continued to be asymptomatic. Two patients in the fixation group underwent contracture release after union for limited elbow range of motion. Many factors come into play in the treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures in patients with osteoporosis. Implant selection must be based on bone quality, expected outcome, and surgeon experience. For these injuries, good outcomes may be obtained with either TEA or ORIF.     

Supracondylar fractures of the elbow: open reduction, internal fixation

This principle-based approach for fixing distal humerus fractures has many advantages. Complex fractures are able to be fixed with sufficient stability to permit immediate intensive rehabilitation. Some fractures believed to be unfixable have been fixed satisfactorily by applying the principles outlined in this article. More straightforward fractures are fixed easily using the same techniques. In the author's experience, the stability achieved with this approach is so much greater than that with traditional methods of fixing distal humerus fractures that bone graft has been required only rarely, despite the severity of injuries so typical of the tertiary referral nature of the author's practice. The key points are that the plates should be placed in parallel configuration medially and laterally and that the screws passing through these plates in the distal fragments should interdigitate and lock together.     

Coonrad-Morrey total elbow arthroplasty for tumours of the distal humerus and elbow

We reviewed 20 patients who had undergone a Coonrad-Morrey total elbow arthroplasty after resection of a primary or metastatic tumour from the elbow or distal humerus between 1980 and 2002. Eighteen patients underwent reconstruction for palliative treatment with restoration of function after intralesional surgery and two after excision of a primary bone tumour. The mean follow-up was 30 months (1 to 192).Five patients (25%) were alive at the final follow-up; 14 (70%) had died of their disease and one of unrelated causes. Local control was achieved in 15 patients (75%). The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 22 (5 to 45) to 75 points (55 to 95). Four reconstructions (20%) failed and required revision. Seven patients (35%) had early complications, the most frequent being nerve injury (25%). There were no infections or wound complications although 18 patients (90%) had radiotherapy, chemotherapy or both.The Coonrad-Morrey total elbow arthroplasty provides good relief from pain and a good functional outcome after resection of tumours of the elbow. The rates of complications involving local recurrence of tumour (25%) and nerve injury (25%) are of concern.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of comminuted, intraarticular fractures of the distal radius

Comminuted intraarticular fractures of the distal radius present a difficult problem in management. It is well established that unreduced significant articular incongruency will result in early degenerative osteoarthritis. The technical demands of, and the results to be expected from, formal open reduction and internal fixation of these comminuted articular fractures have not been addressed in the current literature. From 1981 to 1986, 20 patients were treated by open reduction after failure of closed means. Seventeen patients were personally reviewed at an average follow-up of 3.25 years. The results indicate that the procedures are technically demanding and have high early (15%) and late (35%) complication rates. This gives an overall complication rate of 50%, including the need for further operative procedures. However, patient satisfaction is very high, most patients (89%) returning to previous occupations. Function and radiographic results are excellent. Articular congruency was restored in 88%.     

股骨远端骨折手术治疗的回顾性研究

目的探讨采用切开复位内固定术治疗股骨远端骨折的临床效果。方法对1999年1月至2009年1月收治的采用切开复位内固定治疗且获得完整随访资料的19例股骨远端骨折患者进行回顾性分析,男10例,女9例;年龄23～83岁,平均59岁;左侧6例,右侧13例。按照AO分型：A型9例,B型5例,C型5例;根据Neer分型：I型5例,Ⅱ型9例,Ⅲ型5例。闭合性骨折16例,开放性骨折3例,合并其他部位骨折6例,其中合并同侧胫骨平台骨折2例,同侧髌骨骨折1例,同时合并同侧胫骨平台及髌骨骨折1例。受伤至入院时间1 h～6 d,平均22.6 h。对术后患者的膝关节活动度、功能及患者满意度进行评定。结果随访时间4～76个月,平均35.9个月。无一例患者出现伤口感染,内固定松动、断裂。1例患者出现骨折延迟愈合,经二次手术植骨后好转。所有患膝关节伸直均达0度,屈曲平均达122.4度,无内外翻畸形,关节内骨折患者无明显创伤性关节炎表现。膝关节功能HSS评分平均85.1分,优良率94.7%;Lysholm评分83.6分,优良率89.5%。患者对治疗的满意率平均为82.1%。结论采用切开复位内固定结合植骨并早期功能锻炼治疗股骨远端骨折,有利于膝关节功能的早期恢复,结果满意。     

Coronal plane fractures of the distal humerus involving the capitellum and trochlea treated with open reduction internal fixation

Introduction

Coronal plane fractures of the distal humerus involving the capitellum and trochlea are rare. Treatments have evolved from closed reduction to open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to achieve a stable joint that allows early mobilization.

Background

We determined the functional outcomes of treating coronal plane fractures of the distal humerus with ORIF.

Methods

We reviewed the records of all patients with coronal plane fractures of the distal humerus treated by ORIF. Fractures were classified according to Bryan and Morrey. Cannulated screws were used for fixation. All patients were evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Score Performance Index (MEPI) and disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) scores at least 1 year later.

Results

Of the 18 patients evaluated (12 women), the mean (SD) age was 45.3(16.5) years (range 16–70). There were seven Type-I, five Type-III, and six Type-IV fractures. Mean follow-up was 43.6 (38.1) months (range 12–120). The mean elbow range of motion in sagittal plane at last follow-up ranged from 8.9° to 132.8°. The mean MEPI score was 86.7 (15.2) points (range 60–100), corresponding to 12 excellent, 2 good, and 4 fair outcomes. The mean DASH score was 15.3 (13.5) points (range 17–35.8). Heterotrophic ossification developed in one patient with delayed fixation; 14 patients with excellent or good results returned to their previous activity levels. Functional scores did not differ by age, sex, or fracture types (P > 0.05 for all comparisons).

Conclusion

ORIF with cannulated screws, which maintain a stable anatomic articular position, provides satisfactory results in coronal plane fractures of the distal humerus.

Level of evidence

Level IV case series.