Total elbow replacement for complex fractures of the distal humerus. An option for the elderly patient.

The treatment of multifragmentary, intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus is difficult, even in young patients with bone of good quality, but is worse in elderly patients who have varying degrees of osteopenia. We have evaluated the functional outcome of primary total elbow replacement (TER) in the treatment of these fractures in ten elderly patients followed for a minimum of one year. There were no complications in regard to the soft tissues, bone or prosthesis. The mean range of flexion obtained was 125 degrees (110 to 140) and loss of extension was 23.5 degrees (0 to 50). The mean Mayo score was 94 points (80 to 100) and patient satisfaction was high. We feel that TER provides an alternative to open reduction and internal fixation in the management of these complicated fractures in the elderly.