Distal Humeral Hemiarthroplasty Versus Total Elbow Arthroplasty for Acute Distal Humeral Fractures

Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty compared to total elbow replacement for distal humeral fractures: a registry analysis of 906 procedures

BACKGROUND

Total elbow replacement (TER) is an accepted treatment for complex intra-articular distal humerus fractures in elderly patients. Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty (HA) is also a potential surgical option for unreconstructable fractures and avoids the concerns regarding mechanical wear and functional restrictions associated with TER. In the current literature, there are limited data available to compare the revision rates of HA and TER for the treatment of fracture. We used data from a large national arthroplasty registry to compare the outcome of HA and TER undertaken for fracture/dislocation and to assess the impact of demographics and implant choice on revision rates.

METHODS

Data obtained from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry from May 2, 2005, to December 31, 2021, included all procedures for primary elbow replacement with primary diagnosis of fracture or dislocation. The analyses were performed using Kaplan-Meier estimates of survivorship and hazard ratios (HRs) from Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

There were 293 primary HA and 631 primary TER procedures included. The cumulative percentage revision (CPR) rate at 9 years was 9.7% for HA (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.0, 15.7), and 11.9% (95% CI 8.5, 16.6) for TER. When adjusted for age and gender, there was a significantly higher risk of revision after 3 months for TER compared to HA (HR 2.47, 95% CI 1.22, 5.03, P = .012). There was no difference in the rate of revision for patients aged <55 years or ≥75 years when HA and TER procedures were compared. In primary TER procedures, loosening was the most common cause of revision (3.6% of primary TER procedures), and the most common type of revision in primary TER involved revision of the humeral component only (2.6% of TER procedures). TER has a higher rate of first revision for loosening compared to HA (HR 4.21, 95% CI 1.29, 13.73; P = .017). In HA procedures, instability (1.7%) was the most common cause for revision. The addition of an ulna component was the most common type of revision (2.4% of all HA procedures).

CONCLUSION

For the treatment of distal humerus fractures, HA had a lower revision rate than TER after 3 months when adjusted for age and gender. Age <55 or ≥75 years was not a risk factor for revision when HA was compared to TER. Loosening leading to revision is more prevalent in TER and increases with time. In HA, the most common type of revision involved addition of an ulna component with preservation of the humeral component.

Elbow arthroplasty in trauma-current concepts review

Introduction

Despite advancements in modern locking plate technology, distal humerus fractures in the elderly remain difficult to treat. A subset of fractures in this osteoporotic bone includes multiple, shallow articular fragments that renders fixation unreliable, precluding early motion and acceptable functional outcomes. Arthroplasty, in the form of either Total Elbow Arthroplasty (TEA) or Distal Humeral Hemiarthroplasty (DHH) are alternative treatment options in this cohort and are being increasingly used.

Methods

This article reviews the use of TEA or DHH for acute distal humerus fracture, including patient selection, pre-operative planning, surgical approach, implant positioning, rehabilitation, outcomes and complications.

Results

Arthroplasties are being increasingly used for acute distal humerus fractures, however they introduce potential complications not seen with fixation. Due care must be employed to correct implant positioning which is a function of implant rotation, implant length and implant sizing. We describe a robust technique for epicondyle repair in DHH and unlinked TEA to avoid instability. Outcomes of DHH and TEA for acute distal humerus fracture are encouraging, however further long-term outcome and comparative data regarding arthroplasty is required.

Conclusions

Short to medium term outcomes demonstrate that both DHH and TEA are valuable options for selected patients, although attention to technique is required to minimise potential complications.

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.

Hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of distal humerus fractures: long-term clinical results

BACKGROUND

Total elbow arthroplasty is a treatment for unreconstructable distal humerus fractures; implant longevity remains a concern, especially in younger patients. However, distal humeral hemiarthroplasty (DHH) offers an alternative with potential long-term advantages.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 10 patients who underwent DHH for distal humerus fractures over a 4-year period (2008-2012) by a single surgeon. Patients underwent testing of range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (DASH), visual analog scale (VAS), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), Simple Shoulder Test, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) scores. Average patient age at surgery was 71.9 years (range 56-81 years); average follow-up was 115.2 months (range 96-144 months).

RESULTS

Patients maintained improvements in MEPS (mean 88, range 75-100) and DASH scores (mean 37.1, range 11.21-55.09), along with no statistically significant decrease in range of motion or scores in comparison to either short- or midterm results. Mean VAS score was 2.2 (range 0-7), SANE 69 (range 55-85), ASES 76.66 (range 51.67-100), and CCI 4.3 (range 1-7). Participants had an average flexion of 126° (range: 90°-140°), extension of 36° (range: 30°-45°), supination of 66° (range: 60°-70°), and pronation of 64° (range: 45°-80°). No elbow dislocations, subluxations, or heterotopic ossification were observed. Complications included 1 fracture and 1 complaint of prominent hardware. Four patients were deceased, and 1 patient was lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This long-term review suggests that DHH may be an effective treatment for certain distal humerus fractures. The data suggest that elbow range of motion and functional use are maintained from comparison with short- and midterm studies, with no appreciable change in radiographic cartilage wear along the radius or ulna.

Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty for trauma: a systematic review of the outcomes and complications

BACKGROUND

In patients with distal humerus fractures that are unreconstructible, total elbow arthroplasty is an established alternative to open reduction-internal fixation. Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty is a further alternative to avoid the significant lifestyle limitations associated with total elbow arthroplasty. Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty is an increasingly popular treatment option for unreconstructible distal humeral fractures not amenable to reconstruction. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the literature regarding the functional outcomes and complications of the use of distal humerus hemiarthroplasty for acute trauma.

METHODS

A systematic review of the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases was performed. The search terms included "distal humerus fracture" OR "elbow fracture" AND "hemiarthroplasty" OR "arthroplasty" OR "replacement." Studies were limited to those published in the English language with reported functional outcome measures and complications. Patient demographic characteristics, implant systems, clinical outcomes (range of motion and functional outcome scores), and complications were extracted.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies with a total of 207 patients met the inclusion criteria. The average age ranged from 44 to 79 years, with the mean length of follow-up ranging from 11 to 82 months postoperatively. A mean range-of-motion arc ≥ 93° was achieved in all studies, with 11 of 13 studies achieving mean functional range of motion ≥ 100°. All studies reported good to excellent mean outcome scores. Heterotopic ossification, ulnar cartilage wear, stiffness, and ulnar neuropathy were the most commonly encountered complications. The reoperation rate and revision rate were 17% and 3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty is a viable option in the treatment of unreconstructible distal humerus fractures, with good to excellent outcomes expected. Long-term outcome data and the use of distal humerus hemiarthroplasty in younger patients are yet to be fully defined.

Hemiarthroplasty or total elbow arthroplasty for unreconstructable distal humeral fractures in patients aged over 65 years : a systematic review and meta-analysis of patient outcomes and complications

AIMS

Arthroplasty is being increasingly used for the management of distal humeral fractures (DHFs) in elderly patients. Arthroplasty options include total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) and hemiarthroplasty (HA); both have unique complications and there is not yet a consensus on which implant is superior. This systematic review asked: in patients aged over 65 years with unreconstructable DHFs, what differences are there in outcomes, as measured by patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), range of motion (ROM), and complications, between distal humeral HA and TEA?

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed via a search of MEDLINE and Embase. Two reviewers extracted data on PROMs, ROM, and complications. PROMs and ROM results were reported descriptively and a meta-analysis of complications was conducted. Quality of methodology was assessed using Wylde's non-summative four-point system. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021228329).

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH) score was 19.6 (SD 7.5) for HA and 38 (SD 11.9) for TEA and the mean abbreviated version of DASH was 17.2 (SD 13.2) for HA and 24.9 (SD 4.8) for TEA. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score was the most commonly reported PROM across included studies, with a mean of 87 (SD 5.3) in HA and 88.3 (SD 5) in TEA. High complication rates were seen in both HA (22% (95% confidence interval (CI) 5 to 44)) and TEA (21% (95% CI 13 to 30), but no statistically significant difference identified.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review has indicated PROMs and ROM mostly favouring HA, but with a similarly high complication rate in the two procedures. However, due to the small sample size and heterogeneity between studies, strength of evidence for these findings is low. We propose further research in the form of a national randomized controlled trial. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(5):559-566.

Management of open elbow fractures: experiences and outcomes from a UK major trauma center

HYPOTHESIS AND BACKGROUND

Open fractures about the elbow are an infrequent but complex injury with limited existing literature. The aims of the study were to review the treatment strategies of open elbows fractures, functional outcome and complication rates associated with the injury, and correlate the outcome with the topography of the fracture.

METHODS

Patients (n = 21) with open elbow fractures injuries over a 2-year period were analyzed. They were assessed regarding the orthoplastic characteristics of their injury as well any other associated injuries. Outcomes were assessed objectively (achievement of bony union, range of movement, infection status, need for further procedures) and subjectively (Oxford Elbow Score, EQ-5D, EQ-VAS).

RESULTS

The commonest grade of open injury was grade 3 (43%). Associated orthopedic injuries were present in 62% and associated system injuries in 57%. Almost half of the patients were noted to have had a significantly increased presenting mortality risk as per Injury Severity Score assessment. Mean time to first wound débridement was 31 hours. There were no cases of deep or chronic infection. Complete bony union was noted in 85% of patients, and 48% of patients required removal of metalwork. Subgroup analysis of the cohort by fracture topography (single unipolar elbow bone injury vs. multiple elbow bony injuries) demonstrated no significant difference (P > .05) regarding rate of complication or final Oxford Elbow Score, EQ-5D or EQ-VAS. Patients with injuries that involved the distal humerus had the highest rate for further procedures (P < .05). The average Oxford Elbow Score, EQ-5D, and EQ-VAS scores for the whole cohort at final follow-up were 37.4, 0.54, and 62.18, respectively.

DISCUSSION

Open elbow injuries are usually from high-energy trauma and often combined with other significant injuries. As a result, the timelines to elbow surgery were often delayed. However, this did not impact the local infection rates nor did it necessitate further surgery, but made achieving all British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma targets difficult. Chronic infection was not an issue in this cohort. Subgroup analysis indicates open distal humerus fractures carry the highest risk for further procedures. This is most commonly in the form of removal of metalwork and fibrinolysis. End outcomes for patients with open elbow fractures can be positive, despite the notable presenting Injury Severity Score. A subspecialist elbow and orthoplastic approach whenever possible is advocated.

Does preservation of columns affect the medium-term outcome in distal humerus hemiarthroplasty for acute unreconstructable fractures?

BACKGROUND

We assessed distal humeral column preservation effects on clinical, radiographic and patient reported outcomes following distal humerus hemiarthroplasty for acute unreconstructable fractures.

METHODS

Thirty-seven consecutive patients (mean age, 75; range, 29-93 years) with an average follow-up of 61 months (range, 24-105 months) after distal humerus hemiarthroplasty using a triceps preserving approach were studied. QuickDASH and Oxford Elbow Score assessed patient reported outcomes. Clinical and radiographic assessments comprised range of motion, grip strength, instability, implant loosening, chondral wear, heterotopic ossification and condylar union.

RESULTS

Average QuickDASH was 14.9 (range, 0-63) and Oxford Elbow Score 40.35 (range, 25-48). Mean flexion arc was 108°, extension deficit 17° and pronosupination arc 155°. Average operative sided grip strength was 31.05 kg versus 31.13 kg contralaterally. Column preservation had no statistically significant effect on QuickDASH (p = 0.75), Oxford Elbow Score (p = 0.78), flexion-extension (p = 0.87), pronosupination (p = 0.78) or grip strength (p = 0.87). No progressive radiographic loosening or symptomatic chondral wear occurred. All fixed columns united. Three cases of immediate post-operative laxity fully resolved on elbow mobilisation. Four post-operative complications required further surgery: one ulnar neuropathy, one heterotopic ossification, one wound breakdown and one traumatic dislocation.

CONCLUSION

Medium-term outcome of distal humerus hemiarthroplasty for acute unreconstructable distal humeral fractures is reliable irrespective of condylar preservation.

Coronal Shear Fractures of the Distal Humerus

Coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus are rare, frequently comminuted, and are without consensus for treatment. The aim of this paper is to review the current concepts on the diagnosis, classification, treatment options, surgical approaches, and complications of capitellar and trochlear fractures. Computed Tomography (CT) scans, along with the Dubberley classification, are extremely helpful in the decision-making process. Most of the fractures necessitate open reduction and internal fixation, although elbow arthroplasty is an option for comminuted fractures in the elderly low-demand patient. Stiffness is the most common complication after fixation, although reoperation is infrequent.

Distal Humerus Fractures Managed With Elbow Hemiarthroplasty

Background

Distal humerus fractures not amenable to open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) present a unique dilemma, especially for patients that weight bear through assistive devices. The one accepted operative treatment for irreparable distal humerus fractures is total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). However, TEA commonly requires lifetime weight lifting restrictions and has limited long term results. Elbow hemiarthroplasty (EHA) represents an alternative treatment modality. This study reviews patients treated with EHA permitted to weight bear postoperatively.

Methods

Twelve patients underwent EHA for comminuted distal humerus fractures deemed non-reconstructable by ORIF. Patient survey data was collected retrospectively. All patients were allowed to weight bear as tolerated through the operative extremity. Outcome measures included Patient rated elbow evaluation (PREE), Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS), and whether revision surgery was required.

Results

The average MEPS score was 76.1 indicating fair outcomes and the average PREE score was 41. One patient required revision. Average follow up was 44.1 months. Three patients required an assistive device prior to injury.

Discussion

EHA serves as a viable option for non-reconstructable distal humerus fractures. EHA does not require a weight lifting restriction, which is a benefit over TEA. Overall, patients reported preserved functional capabilities but did report moderate pain. EHA demonstrated durability, although one patient required revision.

Conclusion

With growing interest in use of EHA, further studies are required to evaluate EHA as a superior treatment for patients with nonreconstructable traumatic distal humerus fractures; however, this study does support use in elderly patients with intermediate follow up.

Results of the distal humeral hemiarthroplasty Latitude in distal humeral unreconstructable fractures treatment in patients older than 65 years old

AIM

The aim of this study is evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of Latitude elbow hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of articular distal humerus multifragmentary fractures in patients older than 65 years.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We included those patients older than 65 years who sustained an unreconstructable articular distal humeres fracture and it was replace with a Latitude hemiarthroplasty. We excluded those with a minimum follow up less than 2 years. The clinical outcomes were assessed with Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Range of motion, pain, complications and elbow radiological assessments were recorded at the final follow up.

RESULTS

We have found that after a mean follow-up of 5 years, the five patients included in the study have mild pain in the elbow. They have recovered a median flexion arch of 100°, with a 10° extension lag. The MEPS was considered as good in all the cases. There were not any instability or prosthesis loosening, but two patients developed a moderate proximal cubitus wear.

CONCLUSION

Latitude elbow arthroplasty is an option in the distal articular humerus multifragmentary fractures treatment in osteoporotic and ageing patients with satisfactory results as long as the elbow ligamentous stability can be restored.

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.

The patient-specific implant created with 3D printing technology in treatment of a severe open distal humerus fracture with complete loss of the lateral column

The open distal humeral fracture associated with the major loss of the articular surface and bony structure is a challenging problem for orthopedic surgeons. In this case report, we describe a case of complete missing lateral column of the distal humerus with severe articular destruction of capitellum and lateral trochlear ridge which was treated with the patient-specific implant created with three-dimensional printing technology. Apart from anatomic replacement of the articular surface, the lateral collateral ligament complex and extensor muscle which are the key soft tissue stabilizers of elbow were repaired by reattaching their bony origins to the impacted iliac crest bone graft inside the implant. Due to the favorable result at 2-year follow-up, this modality is a potentially viable surgical option in treating of the severe open distal humeral fracture associated with entire lateral condylar damage.

Novel exploration of 3D printed personalized total elbow arthroplasty to solve the severe bone defect after internal fixation failure of comminuted distal humerus fracture: A case report

RATIONALE

Severe bone defect could often occur after removing the fractured fixation plates of comminuted fracture in the distal humerus. The reoperation of internal fixation or conventional total elbow arthroplasty could hardly restore the anatomy structure and function of the elbow. However, a novel exploration of 3-dimensional (3D) printed personalized elbow prosthesis was presented in this work. This is a rare and successful treatment for the severe bone defect after removing the fractured fixation plates of comminuted distal humerus fracture.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 60-year-old male patient was admitted to the hospital with the chief complaint of right elbow joint pain and limitation of motion for 10 years. He suffered from an open reduction with internal fixation surgery 10 years ago due to a fall injury-induced right distal humerus fracture.

DIAGNOSES

Plain radiographs and computed tomography scan revealed fracture lines, fracture displacement, and fixator breakage in the right distal humerus. Pain, swelling, and limitation of motion could be found in the physical examination. Fixation failure and nonunion after internal fixation of comminuted distal humerus fracture were considered.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient was treated with 3D printed personalized TEA and functional rehabilitation exercises.

OUTCOMES

No severe complications were observed during the 36 months follow-up. The patient could complete the daily activities without pain. The hospital for special surgery score increased from 15 points before surgery to 90 points 36 months after surgery.

LESSONS

The 3D printed personalized prosthesis could successfully reconstruct the anatomical structures and function of the elbow joint with a severe bone defect. The 3D printed personalized total elbow arthroplasty might provide a feasible method for treating the complex elbow joint diseases in the elderly.

The use of articulated external fixation for complex elbow trauma treatment

INTRODUCTION

We use external elbow joint fixator (FE-F4) for fracture and dislocation of the ulnohumeral joint to evaluate the early articular mobilization maintaining concentric reduction, protecting the osteoligamentous reconstruction and avoiding postoperative stiffness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two patients (13 men and 19 women) were treated with FE-F4: 7 simple dislocations (21.9%), 15 distal humerus fractures (46.9%), 4 fractures and dislocations of which 1 terrible triad (12.5%), and 6 complex dislocations (18.7%). The mean age was 64 years. The average follow-up (FU) was 47 months. We evaluated the flexion-extension and prone-supination movement arc, VAS (Visual Analogue Scale), Quick DASH (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score), MEPI (Mayo Elbow Performance Index) and the Broberg and Morrey rating system.

RESULTS

The average ROM was 125.9° for flexion-extension, 77.8° for pronation and 79.7° for supination. The average VAS was 0.56 at the FU, the MEPI score of 93.6, the Broberg and Morrey rating system of 92.4 and the Quick DASH of 8.7. No major complications were found after surgery, and no objective or subjective posterolateral or medial joint instability was found. No patients at the FU had a new surgery with arthromyolysis or elbow arthroplasty.

DISCUSSION

The elbow joint stiffness is the main cause of functional inability for the patient suffering from posttraumatic outcomes. The FE-F4 allows an early mobilization, even in case of injuries or complex reconstructions, keeping the joint stable and protecting any bone synthesis and the damaged capsule-ligament structures.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Total Elbow Arthroplasty: Clinical Outcomes, Complications, and Revision Surgery

Total elbow arthroplasty is a common surgical procedure used in the management of advanced rheumatoid arthritis, posttraumatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, and unfixable fracture in elderly patients. Total elbow prostheses have evolved over the years and now include the linked, unlinked, and convertible types. However, long-term complications, including infection, aseptic loosening, instability, and periprosthetic fracture, remain a challenge. Here, we introduce each type of implant and evaluate clinical outcomes and complications by reviewing the previous literature.

Outcomes After Hemiarthroplasty of the Elbow for the Management of Posttraumatic Arthritis: Minimum 2-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Hemiarthroplasty (HA) of the elbow represents an alternative to total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) without the associated activity restrictions. This study reviews our experience with distal humerus HA with minimum 2-year follow-up.

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2012, 16 elbows underwent HA for posttraumatic arthritis of the elbow. Patients were followed for a minimum of 2 years or until revision surgery. Outcome measures included pre- and postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPSs), complications, and revisions.

RESULTS

Mean age at arthroplasty was 45 years, and follow-up averaged 51 months. All patients had previously undergone one or more surgical procedures at the elbow (average of 1.5 procedures). At follow-up, five had undergone additional surgery; two were revised to TEA. In surviving implants, the range of motion at follow-up was markedly improved from preoperative motion. The MEPS for the remaining HA included five excellent results, three good results, five fair results, and one poor result.

DISCUSSION

Elbow HA is an option for young or active patients with end-stage elbow posttraumatic arthritis who are unwilling to accept activity limitations. However, high rates of revision surgery and revision to TEA occur after HA for posttraumatic osteoarthritis of the elbow. Only 57% of patients with surviving implants had a good to excellent MEPS, although improvement in the range of motion was predictable.

The expanding use of total elbow arthroplasty for distal humerus fractures: a retrospective database analysis of 56,379 inpatients from 2002-2014

OBJECTIVES

Distal humerus fractures are challenging to treat, with significant morbidity. Precontoured distal humerus locking plates and total elbow arthroplasty implants have become available in the past 15 years, potentially offering the promise of improved outcomes. However, national data regarding the usage of and in-hospital complications associated with these implants is scarce. Therefore, we aimed to determine if the incidence of inpatients with distal humerus fractures treated with arthroplasty or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) changed over time. Secondarily, we sought to determine what demographic factors were associated with arthroplasty versus fixation and compare inpatient outcomes.

METHODS

Inpatients over 50 years old with operatively treated closed distal humerus fractures were identified between 2002 and 2014 in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, a nationally representative, all-payer database. Patient demographic factors were associated with treatment type. Outcomes examined included complications, mortality, length-of-stay, and charges; multivariable logistic regression compared associations with treatment.

RESULTS

Of 56,379 inpatients undergoing surgery, the proportion undergoing arthroplasty rose 2.3-fold from 4.8% to 10.9% from 2002 to 2014 (OR 1.039/year [95% CI [1.016-1.062]). Annual patient volume remained similar. Arthroplasty patients were older than those undergoing fixation (75.5 vs. 71.0 years, p < 0.001), more likely to be female (83.1% vs. 75.4%, p < 0.001), and less likely to be treated at a rural hospital (OR 0.601, 95% CI 0.445-0.812, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in comorbidities. Arthroplasty patients had similar inpatient medical complication (7.1% vs. 7.8%, OR 0.998, p = 0.988) and mortality rates (0.38% vs. 0.94%, OR 0.426, p = 0.102), a decreased length of stay (by 0.3 days, p = 0.032), but increased hospital charges (by $12,033, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

For inpatients over 50 years old with operatively-treated distal humerus fractures, use of elbow arthroplasty has expanded, albeit with increased cost. Further studies may help to delineate the long-term costs and benefits, as well as which patients may benefit from each type of implant.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, Therapeutic Study.

Hemiarthroplasty for Distal Humerus Fracture: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis for Functional Outcome

Background

Treatment of distal humerus fractures in osteoporotic elderly patients is often challenging. For non-reconstructible fractures with open reduction and internal fixation, total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is an acceptable alternative. However, the relatively high complication rates and lifelong activity restrictions make TEA less ideal for elderly or low-demand patients. Efforts to identify or develop alternate procedures that benefit relatively young, high-demand patients have resulted in increased interest in hemiarthroplasty. This systematic review reports the clinical outcomes of hemiarthroplasty for distal humeral fractures.

Methods

We systematically reviewed the databases of PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library. All English-language studies published before June 2017 were considered for possible inclusion. Search terms included ‘distal humerus fracture’ and ‘hemiarthroplasty’. Studies reporting outcomes (and a minimum of 1 year clinical follow-up) in human subjects after hemiarthroplasty (Latitude system) for distal humeral fractures were assessed for inclusion. Patient demographics, clinical and radiographic outcomes, and complications were recorded, and homogenous outcome measures were analyzed.

Results

Nine studies with a total of 115 patients met the inclusion criteria. Among the included studies, the weighted mean follow-up time was 35.4 months. Furthermore, the weighted mean of the postoperative range of motion (107.6° flexion-extension, 157.5° for pronation-supination) and functional outcomes (Mayo elbow performance scores: 85.8, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score: 19.6) were within the acceptable range.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that hemiarthroplasty is a viable option for comminuted distal humerus fracture. Satisfactory functional outcomes were observed in most patients.

Fracture-pattern-related therapy concepts in distal humeral fractures

Around one third of humeral fractures and 2–6% of all fractures occur to the distal part of the humerus. There is a bimodal distribution differentiating between young male patients with high-energy and elderly female patients with low-energy trauma related to osteoporosis. The AO classification and Dubberley subclassification are used in daily routine. Most fractures are diagnosed on radiographs. For further evaluation, three-dimensional computed tomography is recommended, especially for comminuted or complex fractures. Owing to the long immobilization and resultant poor functional outcome, conservative treatment is followed for inoperable patients. The operative approach and osteosynthesis depend on the fracture pattern. In A1 avulsion fractures, open reduction and screw fixation are recommended. In A2/A3 fractures, a triceps-sparing approach following a 90° double-plate construction (radial dorsal/ulnar lateral) with locking plates is favored. Partial articular B1/B2 fractures are exposed via a medial or lateral approach using unilateral locking plates to stabilize the medial/lateral column. Coronal shear fractures (B3) are classified after Dubberley and are treated via an extended Kocher approach and headless compression screws in anteroposterior direction. If there is a further posterior comminution or a lateral column fragment, stabilization is needed for the lateral/medial column with a precontoured locking plate. In solely articular fracture patterns, a dorsal approach with either a 90° or 180° double-plate construction is advised. If a reconstruction is not possible owing to fracture complexity or bone quality, total elbow arthroplasty is a viable option. However, lifelong limitation in weight-bearing up to 5 kg, limited longevity, and the potential for complicated revision surgery should be considered.