Osteosynthesis of AO/OTA 13-C3 distal humeral fractures in patients older than 70 years

The importance of interdigitating screw fixation of the trochlea in double plate osteosynthesis of low transcondylar distal humerus fractures: A biomechanical study

OBJECTIVE

The trochlea is of great importance for the stability of the elbow and its fixation in low transcondylar fractures of the distal humerus is especially challenging. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal trochlea fixation in double plate osteosynthesis of intraarticular distal humerus fractures.

METHODS

A low transcondylar, C3-type distal humerus fracture was created in 20 fresh-frozen human cadaveric humeri. The samples were then randomly divided into two groups of 10 specimens each. Double plate osteosynthesis was performed in both groups. In group A, the two most distal screws of the lateral plate were inserted into the trochlea fragment. In group B, these screws did not extend into the trochlea. Displacement under cyclic loading and ultimate failure loads were determined for all specimens.

RESULTS

Group A showed significantly less displacement under cyclic loading in each measurement interval (0.92 mm vs. 1.53 mm after 100 cycles, p = 0 0.006; 1.10 mm vs. 1.84 mm after 1000 cycles, p = 0.007; 1.18 mm vs. 1.98 mm after 2000 cycles, p = 0.008). The ultimate failure load was significantly higher in group A than in group B (345.61 ± 120.389 N vs. 238.42 ± 131.61 N, p = 0.037).

CONCLUSIONS

Fixation of the trochlea with interdigitating screws in double plate osteosynthesis of low-condylar type C distal humerus fractures results in superior construct stability.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

not applicable (biomechanical).

Adjunctive intraosseous wiring fixation technique for the comminuted distal humeral fractures

Distal humeral fractures are among the most challenging injuries to treat. Although precise repair of the articular surface is essential during surgery, accurate reconstruction of the metaphysis contributes to the overall stability of the fracture construct. The intraosseous wiring technique has been used for small-fragment fractures. However, its efficacy as an adjunct for distal humerus fixation has yet to be thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to demonstrate the applicability of this technique to comminuted, distal humeral fractures. In this retrospective case series, we describe 6 cases of intra-articular distal humerus fractures treated with this technique, followed by dual plating. We observed successful bone union in all patients, with the Mayo Elbow Performance Scores indicating "good" to "excellent" clinical outcomes for this procedure at the final follow-up. We believe that this intraosseous wiring technique should be an integral part of the toolbox of every surgeon because it is a relatively simple and highly effective procedure that requires no special instrument and can be used on various types of fractures.

Elbow hemiarthroplasty vs. open reduction internal fixation for acute Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) type 13C fractures—A systematic review

Background

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is the standard treatment for multifragmentary intra-articular distal humeral fractures. Fractures not amenable by ORIF are treated with total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). In recent years, elbow hemiarthroplasty (EHA) has been used as an alternative to TEA, as weight bearing restrictions and risk of component loosening are lower. We systematically reviewed the literature reporting functional outcomes and complication rates after either EHA or ORIF for Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) type 13C fractures.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and Scopus. The inclusion criteria were at least 5 patients, aged ≥50 years, AO/OTA type 13C fracture treated with ORIF or EHA, and evaluation with the Mayo Elbow Performance Score. Literature screening and data extraction were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The results were synthesized qualitatively using weighted means. No comparative statistical analyses were done.

Results

We included 27 articles, which included 96 patients treated with EHA and 535 patients treated with ORIF. We identified 1 randomized controlled trial and 26 case series. The weighted mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 86.9 (n = 89) in the EHA group and 84.7 (n = 535) in the ORIF group. There were 26 (33%) complications (n = 78) in the EHA group and 103 (38%) complications (n = 270) in the ORIF group. Complication rates were generally high in both groups.

Conclusion

We found comparable results of EHA and ORIF, which indicate that EHA is a viable treatment option for AO/OTA type 13C fractures not amenable by ORIF. Because of high risk of bias, interpretation of the results should be done with caution.

Outcomes of AO/OTA C-type fractures of the distal humerus after open reduction and internal fixation with locking plate constructs in patients at least 65 years old

Background

Modern treatment options of distal humerus fractures of active elderly patients are osteosynthesis and total elbow arthroplasty. The evidence of outcomes of ORIF after AO/OTA C-type fractures mostly predates the adoption of locking plates. We evaluated the results of open reduction and internal fixation of these fractures treated exclusively with anatomic locking plates.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of 39 patients aged 65 years or above with ORIF for AO/OTA C-type distal humerus fracture using locking plates was analysed. 23 provided follow-up data and 14 attended a follow-up visit. Primary outcome was the Oxford Elbow Score. Secondary outcomes were Mayo Elbow Performance Score, quickDASH, satisfaction, range of motion, complications and revision surgeries.

Results

Mean Oxford Elbow Score pain was 83 (SD 17), Oxford Elbow Score function 83 (17) and Oxford Elbow Score social-psychological 79 (20). Mean total Oxford Elbow Score was 81 (15). Among the 14 patients who attended a follow-up visit, Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 85 (17), qDASH 19 (16), active arc of motion 119 (19) degrees. Mayo Elbow Performance Score and arc of motion were worse than on the healthy side. One patient had a serious deep infection. Eleven patients had at least one revision surgery, of which 6 were implant removals and 2 subsequent total elbow arthroplasties.

Conclusions

Distal AO/OTA C-type distal humerus fractures in older adults can be treated reliably and with good outcomes with ORIF using modern locking plates. The mean qDASH scores are similar to population normal values, but when compared to the healthy arm, single-arm outcomes indicated somewhat impaired function. About 1 in 4 patients had at least one revision surgery.

The Outcomes of Intra-Articular Distal Humerus Open Reduction Internal Fixation Using Parallel Precontoured Plates in the Elderly

PURPOSE

Inconsistent outcomes have been reported in several prior studies of elderly patients with distal humerus fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). We evaluated the outcomes of ORIF using modern precontoured plates exclusively in a parallel orientation.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed to identify the patients aged over 65 years who sustained an isolated distal humerus fracture between 2015 and 2019. We identified 22 patients who underwent distal humerus ORIF using parallel, precontoured locking plates. Electronic medical records were reviewed for demographic characteristics, physical examination findings, and radiographic data. Outcomes were assessed with Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores and Mayo Elbow Performance scores. Complications were evaluated by a review of the patient's medical record and postoperative radiographs.

RESULTS

Of the included patients, 18 were women and 4 were men; the average age was 78 years (SD, 8.5 years), and the patients were followed for an average of 33 months. The sample consisted of 19 AO type C, 1 type B, and 2 type A fractures. At the final follow-up, the mean arc of total elbow flexion was 107° (SD, 18.9°; range 40° to 130°), with mean elbow flexion of 129° (SD, 11.7°; range, 120° to 140°) and mean extension of 22° (SD, 12.9°; range 0° to 90°). The mean Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 19 (SD, 14.4), and the mean Mayo Elbow Performance score was 86 (SD, 10.2). Complications occurred in 5 (23%) patients, requiring 4 subsequent surgeries, of which 1 was a conversion to total elbow arthroplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

Older patients who underwent ORIF of the distal humerus using a parallel construct demonstrated good functional outcomes and similar complications to those in previously reported studies.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Modified pin and plate fixation for low intercondylar fractures of the humerus: biomechanical study corroborated with a case series

BACKGROUND

Establishing fracture union of low and comminuted intercondylar fractures of the humerus is inherently challenging. The purposes of the present study were to investigate the biomechanical effectiveness of pin & plate (PP) fixation compared to other dual-plating techniques by finite element analysis, and to present a technical description as well as retrospectively review the outcomes of PP fixation in such difficult fractures.

METHODS

Low-level intercondylar fracture 3D models of the humerus were virtually stabilized with three fixations on lateral side including PP, lateral pre-contoured locking compression plate (L-LCP), and variable angle lateral pre-contoured locking plate (VA-L-LCP) whereas medial pre-contoured locking compression plate (M-LCP) on medial side. Loading conditions under consideration were axial compression, internal rotation, posterior bending, and valgus rotation. Regarding the clinical series, eight patients with intra-articular and comminuted fractures of the distal humerus (6 intercondylar fractures, 1 fracture-subluxation, and 1 isolated lateral condylar fracture) were operated by isolated PP fixation or combinations of PP and the other standard implants. Data were collected on fracture union, perioperative complications, and objective clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Biomechanical results revealed the most instability of the fracture occurring under posterior bending. PP fixation presented comparable fracture stability and fragment displacement compared to other dual-plating fixations, except stress on the Kirschner wire under internal rotation which was higher than other fixations. Regarding the clinical series, fracture union was achieved in all cases with an average union time of 17 weeks (range 12-20). All except one patient had good-to-excellent MEPS results with an average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score of 14.6 (range 0-45) and an average arc of elbow motion of 107.5 degrees (range 60-140).

CONCLUSION

By the biomechanical performance, PP fixation is a reliable technique for fixation of low intercondylar fractures of the humerus. Supported by the clinical outcomes, the present technique could be an alternative for this particular fracture especially when severe comminution prevents the use of the standard dual plating technique.

Good functional outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation for AO/OTA type 13-C2 and -C3 acute distal humeral fractures in patients aged over 45 years

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to report the functional outcomes and complications after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO)/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) type 13-C2 and -C3 acute distal humeral fractures with minimum 2-year follow-up. Our hypothesis was that ORIF would provide functional outcomes that are comparable to those of total elbow arthroplasty and elbow hemiarthroplasty reported in the literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

During a 6-year period, 23 patients aged > 45 years were treated with double plating for AO/OTA type 13-C2 or -C3 fractures. The mean age was 62 years (range, 46-80 years). The Oxford Elbow Score was used as the primary outcome; the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, pain severity score (on a visual analog scale), range of motion, reoperations, and complications were used as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

The median Oxford Elbow Score was 42 (range, 25-48), where a score of 48 represents a normal elbow; 20 patients achieved good to excellent outcomes, and 3 achieved fair outcomes. The median Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 85 (range, 60-100), where a score of 100 represents a normal elbow; 18 patients achieved good to excellent outcomes, and 5 achieved fair outcomes. The median visual analog scale score was 2 (range, 0-5). The median flexion-extension and supination-pronation arcs were 120° (range, 70°-155°) and 160° (range, 75°-170°), respectively. Eight complications were recorded in 7 patients; 4 of them required reoperation because of fracture pseudarthrosis or elbow stiffness. Ten patients were working at the time of trauma, and nine of them returned to the same occupation. Our results are comparable to the results of previously published studies regarding the outcome of ORIF, elbow hemiarthroplasty, or total elbow arthroplasty for AO/OTA type 13-C fractures.

CONCLUSION

ORIF is a reliable treatment option for AO/OTA type 13-C2 and -C3 acute distal humeral fractures in middle-aged and elderly patients, despite the considerable rate of complications. Good to excellent results can be obtained in most patients.

Results of Linked Convertible Total Elbow Arthroplasty for the Management of Distal Humeral Fractures in the Elderly

PURPOSE

Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is increasingly used for the management of comminuted distal humeral fractures in elderly patients. There are limited data on the outcome of modern elbow arthroplasty designs in larger patient cohorts. The aim of the current study was to review the outcomes and complications using a cemented convertible TEA system in a linked configuration in patients with distal humeral fractures.

METHODS

Patients with distal humeral fractures treated with TEA and a minimum of 2 years' follow-up were reviewed. Demographic information, patient-reported outcome, functional and radiographic outcome assessments, and complications were reported.

RESULTS

Forty patients met inclusion criteria; 35 were female. Median follow-up was 4 years (range, 2-13 years). Average age of patients at the index procedure was 79 ± 9 years. All implants were linked. Range of motion was: extension 16° ± 13°, flexion 127° ± 14°, supination 79° ± 11°, and pronation 73° ± 20°. Patient-reported outcome scores were: Patient-Rated Elbow Evaluation 37 ± 35, Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand 31 ± 31, and Mayo Elbow Performance Index 90 ± 18. Seven patients had heterotopic ossification. Lucent lines were noted predominantly in humeral implant zone V. No lucent lines were noted around the ulnar component in any radiographic zone. Complications occurred in 9 patients (22%) and 2 revisions were performed: one for infection and one for a late periprosthetic fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

Total elbow arthroplasty for fracture in elderly patients provides pain relief, functional range of motion, and good patient-reported outcome scores. No implant-related complications of this convertible implant system were encountered, but longer-term follow-up is needed.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Chronic type C3 distal humeral fracture associated with massive bone defects treated by open reduction and internal fixation with iliac crest autografts: a case report

Background

Chronic intercondylar fractures of the distal humerus with massive bone defects and severe comminution in the metaphysis are rare and complex injuries that are challenging for surgeons to treat, as reconstructing the triangular structure of the distal humerus is difficult and may have a severe impact on functional outcomes, especially in young patients, for whom total elbow arthroplasty is usually not a suitable option due to significant impairment in upper limb strength. Here, we report a patient in such scenario who was young and active and was treated by structural iliac bone autografting and internal fixation.

Case presentation

A 26-year-old male patient experienced a major car accident and was diagnosed with an open fracture (Gustilo-Anderson type IIIB) of the right distal humerus with massive bone defects and severe intra-articular involvement, without neurovascular injuries or other associated injuries. Surgical debridement, negative pressure vacuum sealing drainage, and immobilization by braces were initially performed, and the wound was closed after 15 days. When the wound had finally healed and the soft tissue was in good condition without infection or effusion 45 days later, this young and active patient was diagnosed with a chronic type C3 distal humeral fracture associated with massive bone defects at the supracondylar level in both columns and severe comminution at the trochlear groove. We performed surgical debridement and arthrolysis around the fracture site, and then, we successfully reconstructed the triangular structure of the distal humerus using structural iliac crest autografts in both columns as well as in the defective trochlear groove. Finally, internal fixation via a parallel double-plate configuration was performed. Over a follow-up period of 3 years, the patient achieved almost full recovery of range of motion and an excellent functional score, without minor or major postoperative complications.

Conclusion

In this study, we proposed a surgical reconstruction strategy for complex chronic distal humeral fractures associated with massive bone defects and severe articular involvement in young and active patients using metaphyseal shortening and structural iliac crest bone autografting together with open reduction and internal fixation via a parallel configuration.

Correlation between modified trochleocapitellar index and post-traumatic elbow stiffness in type C2-3 distal humeral fractures among adults

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to propose the modified trochleocapitellar index (mTCI), assess its reliability, and evaluate its correlation with post-traumatic elbow stiffness in type C2-3 distal humeral fractures among adults.

METHODS

From January 2013 to June 2017, a total of 141 patients with type C2-3 distal humeral fractures were included. The mTCI was calculated as the ratio between the modified trochlear and capitellar angles relative to the humeral axis (mTCI-HA), lateral humeral line (mTCI-LHL), and medial humeral line (mTCI-MHL) from anteroposterior radiographs taken immediately after the operation. The patients were divided into group A (with elbow stiffness) and group B (without elbow stiffness) based on follow-up results. To determine risk factors for elbow stiffness, univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed on each radiographic parameter separately, together with other clinical variables. Interrater reliability was assessed for all measurements.

RESULTS

Specific optimal ranges of value were identified for mTCI-HA (0.750-0.875), mTCI-LHL (0.640-1.060), and mTCI-MHL (0.740-0.900), beyond which the likelihood of elbow stiffness significantly increased (P < .001). By multivariate analysis, mTCI-HA (odds ratio [OR] 26.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.39-203.07, P = .002), mTCI-LHL (OR 5.37, 95% CI 2.17-13.28, P < .001), and mTCI-MHL (OR 5.95, 95% CI 1.91-18.56, P = .002) values beyond the optimal ranges were identified as the independent risk factors for elbow stiffness. The interrater reliability of mTCI-HA, mTCI-LHL, and mTCI-MHL was 0.986, 0.983, and 0.987, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The mTCI measurement method is reliable. Either too small or too large mTCI values were associated with post-traumatic elbow stiffness among adult patients with type C2-3 distal humeral fractures. The mTCI-HA showed a better predictive value than mTCI-LHL and mTCI-MHL.

Total Elbow Arthroplasty for Distal Humerus Fractures Provided Similar Outcomes When Performed as a Primary Procedure or After Failed Internal Fixation

OBJECTIVES

To compare clinical and functional outcomes of total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) for distal humerus fractures (DHF) performed either as a primary procedure or after internal fixation.

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational study.

SETTING

Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (1998 through 2016).

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-two TEA for acute DHF and 66 TEA after previous internal fixation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Primary outcome measures included the Mayo Elbow Performance Score and motion. Reoperation rates and complications were also compared.

RESULTS

The mean time between internal fixation and arthroplasty was 7.3 years, and the main indications for conversion to TEA were nonunion (36%) and posttraumatic osteoarthritis (32%). There were female predominance (70%) and significant differences in age (74 years vs. 60 years, P < 0.0001) and tobacco use (0 vs. 23%; P = 0.02) between the primary and the salvage cohorts, respectively. Cohort demographics were otherwise comparable. TEA provided similar outcomes in both cohorts in terms of the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (acute 85, salvage 81, P = 0.32) and motion (acute 95/82/75 degrees, salvage 112/81/72 degrees in ulnohumeral/pronation/supination, P = 0.07/P = 0.85/P = 0.65). Reoperation rates were also similar (36% acute vs. 39% salvage, P = 1.00). Aseptic loosening (2 acute, 8 salvage) and deep infection (2 acute, 7 salvage) were the most common complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical outcomes and reoperation rates of TEA for DHF seem to be similar when performed as a primary procedure or as salvage after previous internal fixation. The benefit of avoiding elbow arthroplasty in the acute setting needs to be balanced with the potential for 2 surgical procedures if internal fixation was to be unsuccessful.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.