PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the suitability of bi-columnar internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach for the treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures. METHODS: Nineteen cases of intra-articular distal humerus fractures were treated with open reduction and bi-columnar internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach. The reduction in the articular surface and functional recovery of the affected elbows was assessed at an average follow-up of 15.8 ± 7.9 (7-43) months. RESULTS: The gap in the main articular fragments was less than 1 mm in 16 cases, while a gap of more than 1 mm and less than 2 mm was identified in 2 cases and of 3.7 mm in one case. All the fractures were united. At the latest follow-up, the mean flexion-extension of the elbows was 113.4° ± 20.7°, while the pronation-supination of the forearms was 158.3° ± 8.5°, and the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Index was 93.7 ± 9.1 points, leading to 13 excellent outcomes, and 6 with good results. CONCLUSIONS: Intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus can be effectively treated by open reduction and internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach at the elbow.
PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the suitability of bi-columnar internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach for the treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures. METHODS: Nineteen cases of intra-articular distal humerus fractures were treated with open reduction and bi-columnar internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach. The reduction in the articular surface and functional recovery of the affected elbows was assessed at an average follow-up of 15.8 ± 7.9 (7-43) months. RESULTS: The gap in the main articular fragments was less than 1 mm in 16 cases, while a gap of more than 1 mm and less than 2 mm was identified in 2 cases and of 3.7 mm in one case. All the fractures were united. At the latest follow-up, the mean flexion-extension of the elbows was 113.4° ± 20.7°, while the pronation-supination of the forearms was 158.3° ± 8.5°, and the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Index was 93.7 ± 9.1 points, leading to 13 excellent outcomes, and 6 with good results. CONCLUSIONS:Intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus can be effectively treated by open reduction and internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach at the elbow.
Authors: Chad P Coles; David P Barei; Sean E Nork; Lisa A Taitsman; Douglas P Hanel; M Bradford Henley Journal: J Orthop Trauma Date: 2006-03 Impact factor: 2.512
Authors: Ryan C Chen; David J Harris; Stephane Leduc; Joseph J Borrelli; Paul Tornetta; William M Ricci Journal: J Orthop Trauma Date: 2010-07 Impact factor: 2.512