Radial head fractures with acute distal radioulnar dislocation. Essex-Lopresti revisited

Seven adults with displaced radial head fractures had concurrent dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint. Because support of the radius was lost at both the elbow and wrist, proximal migration of the radius from 5 to 10 mm occurred. Different types of fractures were classified to designate the best method of restoring radial length to prevent chronic wrist pain and stiffness. Type I fractures had large displaced radial head fragments with minimal or no comminution and amenable to interfragmentary fixation. Type II fractures had severe comminution requiring radial head excision and prosthetic replacement. Type III were old injuries with irreducible proximal migration of the radius managed by ulnar shortening and radial head prosthetic replacement. There were three Type I, two Type II, and two Type III fractures. Results of treatment were graded as 3, excellent; 2, good; 1, fair; and 1, poor. The three excellent results were in patients in which restoration of radial length was achieved within one week of injury. Suboptimal results occurred in the remaining four patients when definitive surgery was delayed four to ten weeks. The poor result was in a patient treated only by radial head excision and who refused further surgery. Recommendations include meticulous clinical and roentgenographic examination of the distal radioulnar joint in all patients with displaced radial head fractures. Preservation of the radial head with anatomic reduction and rigid internal fixation is preferred, but radial head replacement may be necessary in cases with extensive comminution. Radial head excision alone, though contraindicated, may be restructured by ulnar shortening and radial head prosthetic replacement.     

Isolated radial shaft fractures are more common than Galeazzi fractures

PURPOSE: In contrast to isolated diaphyseal fractures of the ulna (so-called night-stick fractures), isolated fractures of the radial diaphysis generally are expected to have associated injury of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ), the so-called Galeazzi fracture. This study retrospectively reviewed isolated fractures of the radial diaphysis in a large cohort of patients to determine how often such fractures occur without DRUJ injury METHODS: Thirty-six patients with fracture of the radius without fracture of the ulna were followed up for at least 6 months after injury. Injury of the DRUJ was defined as more than 5 mm of ulnar-positive variance on radiographs taken before any manipulative or surgical reduction. All of the fractures were treated with plate and screw fixation (8 with autogenous bone grafting) and all healed. Patients with DRUJ injury had either temporary pinning or immobilization of the DRUJ or surgical fixation of a large ulnar styloid fracture. Patients without DRUJ injury were mobilized within 2 weeks. RESULTS: Nine patients had dislocation of the DRUJ, 4 with large ulnar styloid fractures. Among the remaining 27 patients 1 had displacement of the proximal radioulnar joint noted after surgery, leading to a secondary procedure for radial head resection. The functional results were satisfactory or excellent in all but 2 patients with functional limitations related to central nervous system injury. No patient had DRUJ dysfunction at the final follow-up evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: Isolated fractures of the radial diaphysis are more common than true Galeazzi fractures. Surgeons should take great care not to overlook injury to the distal or proximal radioulnar joint in association with isolated diaphyseal fractures of the radius; however, fractures without identifiable radioulnar disruption can be treated without specific treatment of the DRUJ and with immediate mobilization. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level IV.     

Reconstruction of the interosseous ligament unloads metallic radial head arthroplasty and the distal ulna in cadavers

PURPOSE: Longitudinal radioulnar dissociation may result when a compressive load to the hand results in excessive proximal migration of the radius with interosseous ligament (IOL) disruption and radial head fracture. Interosseous ligament reconstruction has been proposed to restore more normal forearm mechanics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of IOL reconstruction on compressive load transfer through the forearm after excision and metallic replacement of the radial head in cadavers. METHODS: In 8 cadaveric forearms, 138 N of compressive load was applied to the hand in neutral forearm rotation and neutral elbow varus-valgus alignment. We measured proximal radial migration and 3-dimensional force vectors acting on the distal radius, distal ulna, IOL, proximal radius, and proximal ulna. The experiment was repeated in order for 5 conditions: (1) with the IOL intact, (2) with the IOL reconstructed with a double-bundle flexor carpi radialis construct, (3) with the radial head excised, (4) after metallic radial head arthroplasty, and (5) after cutting the IOL reconstruction. Analysis of variance was used for statistical comparisons. RESULTS: With the IOL intact the resultant load in the distal radius was 94% +/- 3% of hand load, with 75% +/- 2% transmitted to the proximal radius. Double-bundle flexor carpi radialis reconstruction effectively restored this relationship. After radial head excision the resultant distal radius load decreased whereas great increases were seen in the resultant distal ulna load, the resultant load in the IOL reconstruction, the resultant load in the proximal ulna, and proximal radial migration. Force continued to transfer through the proximal radius transversely, with a 400% increase in transverse force, a consequence of abutment of the radial stump caused by proximal radioulnar convergence (there was no contact at the capitellum). After radial head arthroplasty loads transferred across the wrist remained closer to intact but the resultant load on the distal ulna and proximal radius remained increased. With cutting of the IOL reconstruction transverse forces in the forearm became negligible, the resultant distal ulna load increased by 50%, and the resultant radial head load increased by 25%. Proximal migration of the radius was small and was increased by 4.6 mm with radial head excision and by 1 mm after radial head replacement compared with the IOL-reconstructed, radial head-intact state. CONCLUSIONS: Interosseous ligament reconstruction may help improve treatment of longitudinal radioulnar dissociation but remains an experimental procedure.     

Open reduction and internal locked fixation of unstable distal ulna fractures with concomitant distal radius fracture

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results following locking plate fixation of unstable distal ulna fractures with concomitant distal radius fracture. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted to identify patients who had been treated with a locking plate for unstable displaced fractures of the distal ulna in which a concomitant ipsilateral distal radius fracture was also treated operatively. Medical records and radiographs were reviewed, and 5 patients were identified with an average age of 52 years (range, 47-61 years) and with follow-up averaging 11.6 months (range, 6-17 months). There were 2 open and 3 closed fractures. Included was 1 simple neck, 1 comminuted neck, 1 head, and 2 head and neck fractures of the distal ulna. All distal radius fracture implants were locked volar plates. RESULTS: All distal ulna and distal radius fractures united, and the average motion was: flexion 59 degrees ; extension 59 degrees ; pronation 67 degrees ; and supination 72 degrees . Average grip strength was 97% of the opposite extremity. Final ulnar variance averaged -0.4 mm (ulnar negative), radial inclination was 20 degrees , and volar tilt was 8 degrees . All distal radioulnar joints were stable. Two patients had mild, transient paresthesias of the dorsal sensory branch of the ulnar nerve, and both patients recovered completely within 3 months. There were no subsequent surgeries or hardware failures. There were no infections and no wound problems. Based upon the Sarmiento modification of the Gartland and Werley rating score, there were 4 excellent results and 1 good result. CONCLUSIONS: Locked plating of unstable distal ulna fractures, in the setting of an associated distal radius fracture, resulted in union, good to excellent alignment and motion, nearly symmetric grip strength, and minimal transient morbidity.     

Treatment of traumatic radial clubhand deformity with bone loss using the Ilizarov apparatus

Radial clubhand deformity secondary to atrophic nonunion of an open distal radius fracture with bone loss is a challenging reconstructive problem. Two patients with this deformity had staged reconstruction using the Ilizarov apparatus. After gradual realignment of the distal radius metaphyseal fragment, a proximal to distal bone transport of the radial shaft was done. At completion of the bone transport, the docking site was augmented with autologous iliac crest bone graft. Both patients achieved radiographic union at the proximal and distal ends of the bone transport site and were satisfied with the outcome. At 3 years followup, full finger and elbow mobility were maintained. The wrist had improved appearance with limited painless mobility. Posttraumatic radial club hand deformities with associated bone loss can be treated successfully with staged reconstruction using the Ilizarov apparatus and methodology.     

Reverse vascularized bone graft of the lateral distal humerus for non-union of the radial neck fracture: anatomical study and case report

A few treatment options for radial neck non-union have been reported, including radial head excision, radial head replacement, and internal fixation with a bone graft. We describe a new treatment for radial neck non-union using a reverse vascularized bone graft of the lateral distal humerus. In the anatomical study, the posterior radial collateral artery (PRCA) was dissected in eight fresh-frozen cadaver arms. The number of branches from the PRCA to the humerus was determined, and the distances from these branches to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus were measured. We then used this information to create a reverse vascularizedhumeral bone graft, which was used to treat non-union of a radial neck fracture in a 73-year-old female. There were two to four PRCA branches (mean: 3.3) entering the bone. The distance from the branches to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus ranged from 2.5 to 10.8?cm. The mean distances from the most proximal and distal PRCA branches to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus were 7.6?cm and 3.4?cm, respectively. The case of non-union of a radial neck fracture was successfully treated with a reverse vascularized humeral bone graft. There were no major complications, and radiographs showed bony union at 8?weeks postoperatively. This procedure may become a new option for the treatment of non-union of fractures of the radial head and neck, as it enables preservation of the radial head, which is an important structure in the elbow and proximal radioulnar joints.     

切开复位内固定治疗移位的桡骨头骨折

[目的]探讨切开复位内固定治疗成人移位桡骨头骨折的手术技术。[方法]本组移位桡骨头骨折26例,MasonⅡ型16例,Ⅲ型6例,Ⅳ型4例。22例用肘后外侧Kocher切口,另外4例用肘后正中切口以便同时处理合并的尺骨近端骨折。复位后用微型钢板螺钉固定,并使内固定物不妨碍关节活动。[结果]随访平均32个月,无骨间后神经损伤及感染发生,26例骨折均顺利愈合。按照Broberg和Morrey肘部评分标准,优17例,良9例。[结论]切开复位内固定治疗移位桡骨头骨折可取得满意疗效,术中应注意以下方面：（1）保护、修复尺骨外侧副韧带;（2）防止损伤骨间后神经;（3）努力达到解剖复位;（4）固定既要坚强可靠,又要不阻碍关节的运动。     

桡骨显微骨硬度分布特征的实验研究

目的研究人体桡骨显微骨硬度分布特征,并探讨其与解剖结构、骨折流行病学等相关关系。 方法将3个新鲜桡骨标本分为桡骨头、桡骨颈、桡骨粗隆、桡骨干1~9、桡骨远端、桡骨茎突14个部位,并垂直其长轴切取骨组织切片。于骨组织切片的前、后、内、外4个区域各选取5个测量位点,通过显微维氏硬度仪测量每个部位的显微骨硬度。 结果桡骨硬度最硬部位位于桡骨干8,硬度值为（43.82±5.20）HV,硬度最小的部位位于桡骨头,硬度值为（33.30±3.60）HV。桡骨近端的硬度值为（34.15±6.48）HV,桡骨干的硬度为（42.54±5.59）HV,桡骨远端的硬度为（35.24±5.17）HV。 结论桡骨最硬处位于桡骨干下段,桡骨近、远端硬度相近,都低于桡骨干。桡骨干的硬度值高于桡骨近端及桡骨远端,差异有统计学意义,桡骨近端与桡骨远端硬度值差异无统计学意义。桡骨前、后、内、外侧差异无统计学意义。桡骨远端骨折高发除与解剖外形和损伤机制有关外,此处硬度骤降也应视为因素之一。     

Radial head fractures and their effect on the distal radioulnar joint. A rationale for treatment.

Nineteen patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation for radial head fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation was performed to avoid radial head excision and the possible development of distal radioulnar joint dysfunction. Follow-up observation, which averaged 11.7 months, revealed that no patient developed wrist pain. Range of motion of the elbow and forearm was found to be complete in 14 patients and minimally restricted in four. Fourteen patients were pain free with full activity, and four had mild to moderate pain after heavy labor. One patient subsequently required radial head excision. Based on these findings and the authors continued disappointment with treatment of distal radioulnar joint dysfunction caused by proximal radial migration after radial head excision, the authors recommend early open reduction and internal fixation of all displaced or angulated radial head fractures.     

Anatomy of the distal brachioradialis and its potential relationship to distal radius fracture

PURPOSE: To describe the anatomy of the brachioradialis (BR), paying special attention to its insertion in relation to the surrounding structures in cadavers and evaluating and correlating this information with a distal radius fracture pattern in a clinical population. METHODS: Eighteen fresh-frozen cadaver arms were dissected to observe the gross anatomy of the BR. The dimensions of the insertion were measured using a caliper and a 3-dimensional digitizer. The radiographs of 34 patients with 35 distal radius fractures were reviewed and the fracture pattern was compared with the normalized location of the BR insertion based on the cadaver measurements. RESULTS: On average the BR tendon inserted onto the proximal base of the first dorsal compartment 17 mm from the radial styloid tip and extended 15 mm proximally; the insertion was 11 mm wide. The BR insertion was bordered consistently by both septa of the first dorsal compartment, forming a tunnel-like structure of thick fibrous tissue on the radial aspect of the distal radius. The whole length of the tendon attached firmly to the underlying antebrachial fascia, which limited excursion. In 18 of the fractures the fracture line deviated from transverse to proximal at the radial side, forming a radial beak. The proximal tip of the beak correlated with the expected location of the proximal end of the BR tendon insertion. CONCLUSIONS: The BR distal tendon insertion is a consistent, distinct insertion at the base of the first dorsal compartment, which correlates with the radial-beak fracture pattern in approximately 50% of distal radius fractures. Cutting the BR tendon disconnects the distal fragment from the BR muscle and the forearm fascia, which may facilitate reduction of the distal radial fragments during open reduction of the distal radius fracture.     

Incidence and outcome of osteoporotic fractures in 2004 in Sado City,Niigata Prefecture,Japan

Osteoporotic fracture in elderly populations is increasing worldwide, but there are few data on the incidence and outcome of osteoporotic fractures, including upper extremity and vertebral fracture, during a certain period in a defined geographic area. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of osteoporotic fractures in a particular area: Sado City, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. From January to December 2004, osteoporotic fractures of the vertebra, hip, distal radius, and proximal humerus in Sado City were recorded. The incidence, age, gender, type of fracture (for hip fracture), right or left side (for distal radius, proximal humerus, and hip fracture), place of injury, cause of injury, outcome, hospitalization period, and patient status regarding taking of drugs for osteoporosis treatment were checked for each fracture. The incidence was calculated based on the whole population of Sado City. The incidence per 100,000 population was 232.8, 121.4, 108.6, and 37.1 for fractures of the vertebra, hip, distal radius, and proximal humerus, respectively. The total incidence of these four kinds of fracture was 499.9 per 100,000 persons per year. The average age at the time of injury was 81.4, 77.7, 75.7, and 60.2 years old for fractures of the hip, vertebra, proximal humerus, and distal radius, respectively. As the average age increased, the percentage of fractures that occurred indoors also increased; that is, a higher percentage of hip fractures occurred indoors, followed by fractures of the vertebra, proximal humerus, and distal radius. Most patients were not taking anti-osteoporosis drugs before fractures of the hip or vertebra. We determined the incidence of major osteoporotic fractures in 1 year in a defined geographic area. Our data showed that 81% of hip fracture patients also had a vertebral fracture and that the average age at the time of injury was higher for hip fractures than for vertebral fractures. Therefore, these results suggest that vertebral fracture leads to hip fracture, indicating that early fracture prevention and continuous prevention strategies through positive treatment are of importance in osteoporotic elderly people.     

Results of acute excision of the radial head in elbow radial head fracture-dislocations

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the results of radial head excision for the treatment of elbow fracture-dislocations with an unsalvageable comminuted radial head fracture and no other associated fractures. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: University Hospital. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTION: Ten elbow fracture-dislocations with a comminuted radial head fracture treated with radial head excision in our institution between 1990 and 1996 and followed a mean of 4.62 years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Clinical results were graded using the Mayo index and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Radiographs were evaluated for proximal radius migration, elbow angulation, degenerative changes, and ectopic bone. RESULTS: Final clinical results were excellent in four patients, good in five patients, and fair in one patient. Pain was absent in six patients, mild in three patients, and moderate in one patient. Mean flexion arc was 7.5 to 140 degrees, and mean pronation and supination were 85.5 and 83.5 degrees, respectively. Average strength loss was 15 percent. No elbow was unstable. The raw DASH score ranged from 39 to 62 points (normalized values, 0.66 to 15,79 points). On average, the carrying angle increased 5.4 degrees. Degenerative changes were absent in two, Grade I in four, and Grade II in four patients. Ectopic bone, mainly residual fracture fragments, was evident in four patients. Proximal migration of the radius averaged 1.6 millimeters; the two patients with over four millimeters of migration had mild wrist pain. CONCLUSIONS: Acute radial head excision for the treatment of elbow fracture-dislocations provides satisfactory short-term clinical results when there are no other associated intraarticular fractures. However, the long-term significance of the early degenerative changes is not known.     

Treatment of sequelae of radial head fractures with a bipolar radial head prosthesis: Good outcome after 1–4 years follow-up in 11 patients

Background?In the presence of additional disruption of the distal radioulnar ligaments, the interosseous membrane, or the lateral- and/or medial collateral ligament, radial head fractures treated by resection will result in valgus elbow instability, proximal radial migration and/or posterolateral rotatory instability. Radial head replacement has been used to treat or prevent this. We report our experience with the Judet CRF II radial head prosthesis.

Patients and methods?We treated 11 patients with a bipolar radial head prosthesis because of elbow instability after previous treatment for Mason-Johnston type III or IV radial head fractures. The outcome was assessed clinically using two standardized elbow function assessment scales, and radiographically after a mean follow-up of 2 years.

Results?Clinical outcome was either good or excellent in all patients; all elbows were stable. Radiographically, there were no signs of loosening, fracture or heterotopic ossification. 2 patients required reoperation for subluxation of the prosthesis; both were treated by reducing the size of the modular head of the prosthesis. There was erosion of the capitellum in 1 patient.

Interpretation?Bipolar radial head replacement can be used successfully for treatment of the sequelae of radial head fractures. The long-term outcome is, however, unknown.

?     

The use of tricorticocancellous bone graft in severely comminuted intra-articular fractures of the distal radius

PURPOSE: We report the results of a retrospective study of the use of tricorticocancellous iliac crest bone graft in 12 patients with acute AO type C3.2 or type C3.3 fractures of the distal radius who were followed up for at least 1 year. METHODS: Twelve of 17 patients treated with the protocol were available for follow-up evaluation. All fractures were treated with open reduction and combined internal and external fixation. Five fractures were plated dorsally, 1 volarly, and 5 volarly and dorsally. RESULTS: Five patients had AO type C3.2 fractures and 7 had AO type C3.3 fractures. Nine of 10 radiographic parameters that were restored to near-normal values during the surgery were maintained at near-normal levels at the final follow-up evaluation at a mean of 28 months after surgery. Nine fractures had less than 2 mm of articular step-off of the distal radius and 8 had less than 3 mm of total articular incongruity (gap plus step-off). In 10 patients the radial length was restored to at least 10 mm. The mean arc of flexion-extension was 67% and the mean grip strength was 57% of that of the uninjured side. According to the Gartland and Werley demerit-point system 5 of the patients had good or excellent results. According to the modified Green and O'Brien clinical rating system 2 patients had good or excellent results. Poor results for 2 patients according to the demerit-point system and for 6 patients according to the Green and O'Brien clinical rating system were associated with severe ipsilateral soft-tissue and osseous injuries of the wrist, forearm, and arm. The total articular incongruity had a moderately strong correlation with the outcome as assessed by the demerit-point system. CONCLUSIONS: Tricorticocancellous bone grafting in conjunction with combined internal and external fixation is a satisfactory treatment that can lead to a high rate of return to work and sports, a high level of patient satisfaction, and a low rate of complications. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level IV.     

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for distal radius fractures

Background:

Fractures of distal radius are common injury in all age groups. Cast treatment with or without close reduction is a viable option. However, the results are often unsatisfactory with restricted function. The open reduction and internal fixation often results in extensive soft tissue dissection and associated high rates of infect and delayed/nonunion. The distractor/external fixator have reported good functional and anatomical results but the incidence of pin traction infection nerve injury and cosmedic deformity are high. We introduced a modified operative technique for minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) for distal radial fracture and evaluated the functional outcomes and complications.

Materials and Methods:

22 distal radial fractures (10 left, 12 right) were treated using the MIPO technique and two small incisions with a palmar locking plate from August 2009 to August 2010. The wrist function was assessed according to Dienst wrist rating system, and postoperative complications were recorded.

Results:

According to Dienst wrist rating system, 13 patients showed excellent results, 6 cases showed good results and 3 patients had moderate results. No patient had poor results. Thus, the excellent and good rate was 86.4%. One patient had anesthesia in the thenar eminence and this symptom disappeared after 3 months. One patient had delayed healing in the proximal wrist crease. Two patients had mild pain on the ulnar side of the wrist and two patients had limited wrist joint function.

Conclusion:

The MIPO technique by using two small palmar incisions is safe and effective for treatment of distal radial fractures.     

Comminuted fractures of ipsilateral radial head and distal radius: A rare injury pattern

A new injury pattern of comminuted fractures of ipsilateral radial head and distal radius of forearm in an adult was described. To the best of our knowledge, this type of injury pattern had not been previously reported in the English literature. The possible mechanisms of injury were that the rebound forces were volar to the distal radius as the fracture was dorsally angulated, with a continuation of the radial head fracture due to the longitudinal impaction of the radius against the capitellum. Open reduction and internal fixation can obtain excellent results within 7e12 days after injury. We hope that our experience will increase the awareness of the occurrence of a double injury of the forearm.     

Monteggia fracture dislocation equivalents ---analysis of eighteen cases treated by open reduction and internal fixation

Objective: Monteggia fracture dislocation equivalent, though already described by Bado, is still an unclassified entity. We aimed to retrospectively analyze 18 cases of Monteggia variants and discuss the injury mechanisms, management, and outcome along with a re view of the literature. Methods: A retrospective record of Monteggia fracture dislocation (2003-2008) was reviewed from medical record department of our institute. Classic Monteggia fracture dislocation, children below 12 years or adults over 50 years, as well as open grade Ⅱ & Ⅲ cases were excluded from this study. Monteggia variant inclusion criteria included fracture of the proximal ulna together with a fracture of the radial head or neck and skeletal maturity. Totally 26 patients were identified with Monteggia variants and 18 were available for follow-up, including 11 males and 7 females with the mean age of 35 years. The ulna fracture was treated by compression plating along with tension band wiring. Radial head/neck was reconstructed in 12 patients while excised in 6 patients. Results: Follow-up ranged from 1 -4 years, mean 2.6 years. Patients were assessed clinicoradiologically. Mayo Elbow Performance Score was employed to assess the outcomes. At final follow-up, the results were excellent in 10 patients, good in 4, fair in 2 and poor in 2. Mean range of motion of the elbow was 20°, 116°, 50° and 55° for extension, flexion, pronation and supination, respectively. Two patients had complications in the form of heterotopic ossification and stiffness of the elbow. One nonunion ulna, primarily treated by tension band wiring, was managed by refixation with locking reconstruction plate and bone grafting. Bone grafting was only required in this patient for nonunion. Another patient had implants removed on his request. The results in our series closely correlated with extent of intraarticular damage, coronoid fracture and comminuted fractures. Conclusions: Monteggia fracture dislocation equivalents are rare injuries and pre-surgery recognition by radiographs and 3-D CT helps make optimal plan. The poor results usually relate to intraarticular damage, coronoid fractures and comminution of the ulna and radial head fractures.     

Treatment of sequelae of radial head fractures with a bipolar radial head prosthesis: good outcome after 1-4 years follow-up in 11 patients

BACKGROUND: In the presence of additional disruption of the distal radioulnar ligaments, the interosseous membrane, or the lateral- and/or medial collateral ligament, radial head fractures treated by resection will result in valgus elbow instability, proximal radial migration and/or posterolateral rotatory instability. Radial head replacement has been used to treat or prevent this. We report our experience with the Judet CRF II radial head prosthesis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We treated 11 patients with a bipolar radial head prosthesis because of elbow instability after previous treatment for Mason-Johnston type III or IV radial head fractures. The outcome was assessed clinically using two standardized elbow function assessment scales, and radiographically after a mean follow-up of 2 years. RESULTS: Clinical outcome was either good or excellent in all patients; all elbows were stable. Radiographically, there were no signs of loosening, fracture or heterotopic ossification. 2 patients required reoperation for subluxation of the prosthesis; both were treated by reducing the size of the modular head of the prosthesis. There was erosion of the capitellum in 1 patient. INTERPRETATION: Bipolar radial head replacement can be used successfully for treatment of the sequelae of radial head fractures. The long-term outcome is, however, unknown.     

Graft-supplemented, augmented external fixation in the treatment of intra-articular distal radial fractures

This article compares the functional and radiographic outcomes of intraarticular distal radial fractures treated with augmented external fixation in which autologous cancellous bone grafting or Norian SRS (Norian Corp, Cupertino, Calif) was used for filling the metaphyseal void. Thirty non-randomized patients, 15 in each group, with AO type C distal radius fractures (20 men and 10 women; average age: 48 years) were operatively treated between 1998-2000 and retrospectively evaluated. Radial inclination, radial length, volar tilt, and Modified Mayo Wrist Score were assessed at the most recent follow-up evaluation (average: 33.3 months). Overall, 12 (80%) patients in the Norian group had an excellent or good result, 2 had fair, and 1 had poor. In the autologous iliac bone graft group, the results were excellent or good in 11 (73.3%) patients, fair in 1, and poor in 2. No statistical difference between the two types of grafting was noted. Norian SRS is equally effective to cancellous bone as supplementary graft in comminuted distal radial fractures treated by external and Kirschner-wire fixation.     

经皮微创钢板固定治疗肱骨干骨折的疗效分析

目的探讨经皮微创钢板内固定术治疗肱骨干骨折的方法及疗效。 方法2014年5月至2017年5月,应用锁定加压钢板经皮微创固定治疗肱骨干骨折患者26例,男18例、女8例;平均年龄42.6岁（19~72岁）;右侧19例,左侧7例。致伤原因：交通伤11例,平地摔伤8例,高处坠落伤4例,扭伤3例。根据AO分型：A型6例,B型15例,C型5例。其中1例合并桡神经麻痹,1例合并同侧尺桡骨干骨折,1例合并同侧桡骨远端骨折,1例合并对侧肱骨髁间骨折,1例合并同侧股骨粗隆间骨折。受伤距手术时间为3~12 d（平均7.2 d）。其中20例采用前侧入路,6例采用后外侧入路进行经皮微创钢板内固定术。术后患者每2周复查记录功能恢复情况,每4周摄X线片了解骨折愈合情况。 结果经过12~35个月的随访（平均16.4个月）,所有骨折均获得骨性愈合,平均愈合时间14.8周（10~22周）。末次随访时,患者美国加州大学肩关节评分（the university of California at Los Angeles shoulder rating scale,UCLA）为24~35分（平均34.1分）,肘关节Mayo功能评分为91~100分（平均93.3分）。1例患者术后出现桡神经麻痹,3个月后症状消失;另1例术前即合并桡神经损伤患者,术中未显露探查桡神经,神经功能亦于术后2个月恢复。 结论采用经皮微创钢板固定的方式治疗复杂肱骨干骨折,手术创伤更小,操作简单安全,骨折愈合率高,临床疗效满意。