Distal Articular Fractures of the Humerus: Surgical Approach with Dynamic Elbow external Fixator

Abstract

Purpose To measure clinical and radiographic outcomes using external fixation in distal humeral fractures. Methods A total of 10 elderly patients, with a mean age of 71 (range 64–84 years) years old, with unstable distal humeral fractures were treated by percutaneous reduction and fixation with an articulated external fixator. The patients were assessed on range of elbow motion, patient disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH), and pain visual analog scale (VAS) and radiographic evaluation at 12 months. Results The mean range of motion was 134° of flexion, extension was of - 5°. All of the elbows were clinically stable. The mean VAS was 2.2, and the mean DASH score was 14.3. Radiographic analysis showed satisfactory reduction and consolidation. All of the patients showed congruence of concentric humerus-ulnar and radius and no patient had joint stiffness or posttraumatic arthritis of the elbow. Regarding complications, we observed a patient who presented with pain in the location of the ulnar pin, which was resolved with the removal of the pin. After two months, another patient had pneumonia and died. The follow-up was of 15.44 months. Conclusions A radiographic analysis of the patients showed fracture healing with joint congruity. In the functional clinical aspect, it was noted that patients had functional range of motion Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV

Keywords

• elbow
• fractures
• distal humerus fractures
• instability
• elderly
• external fixation