Abstract
We reviewed the functional outcome of cominnuted intraarticular fractures of the distal humerus managed with internal fixation with plates and screws. 15 patients (10 men-5 women) were reviewed over a mean of 29 months postoperatively. The age of the patients at operation ranged from 18 to 72 years. Patients were treated within 7 days of injury, using a posterior approach,with or without olecranon osteotomy and with anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve. Bone grafting was used in 7 cases in addition to internal fixation. Postoperative mobilisation was prompt in all patients,who were meticously reviewed for : 1)Function of the upper extremity,with the aid of the scale of DASH (Disabilities of the arm,shoulder and hand), 2)Ulnar nerve (pain, sensitive and movement dissability, functionality), 3)Range of elbow motion, 4) strength of the muscles controlling the elbow, wrist and hand. 5)Post-operative radiographic appearance, 6)Subjective evaluation, 7)Complications. All the patients were satisfied with the outcome of the operation,as well as with the activities which could postoperatively be undertaken. The mean range of motion for elbow (flexion-extension) was 118° in average,while muscle strength for elbow motion was moderately reduced. No case of ulnar neuropathy was observed. On the other hand postoperative complications were considerably frequent, yet they were mild and subsided eventually without further operation.
The abstracts were prepared by Eleni Koutsoukou. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the Hellenic Association of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (HAOST), 20, A. Fleming str, 15123 Marousi, Athens, Greece.
