Standard fixation for intra-articular distal humerus fracture is open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). However, high energy fractures of the distal humerus are often accompanied with soft tissue injuries and or vascular injuries which limits the use of internal fixation. In our report, we describe a highly complex distal humerus fracture that showed promising healing via a ring external fixator. A 26-year-old man sustained a Gustillo Anderson Grade IIIB intra-articular distal humerus fracture of the non-dominant limb with bone loss at the lateral column. The injury was managed with aggressive wound debridement and cross elbow stabilization via a hinged ring external fixator. Post operative wound managed with foam dressing. Post-operatively, early controlled mobilization of elbow commenced. Fracture union achieved by 9 weeks and frame removed once fracture united. No surgical site infection or non-union observed throughout follow up. At 2 years follow up, flexion - extension of elbow is 20°- 100°, forearm supination 65°, forearm pronation 60° with no significant valgus or varus deformity. The extent of normal anatomic restoration in elbow fracture fixation determines the quality of elbow function with most common complication being elbow stiffness. Ring fixator is a non-invasive external device which provides firm stabilization of fracture while allowing for adequate soft tissue management. It provides continuous axial micro-movements in the frame which promotes callus formation while avoiding translation or angulation between the fragments. In appropriate frame design, they allow for early rehabilitation of joint where normal range of motion can be allowed in controlled manner immediately post-fixation. Functional outcome of elbow fracture from ring external fixation is comparable to ORIF due to better rehabilitation and lower complications. Ring external fixator in our patient achieved acceptable functional outcome and fracture alignment meanwhile the fracture was not complicated with common complications seen in ORIF. In conclusion, ring external fixator is as effective as ORIF in treating complex distal humeral fractures and should be considered for definitive fixation in such fractures

Patients and Methods: Between December 2005 until January 2008 34 distal humerus fractures in 33 patients were prospectively documented and treated using the angular-stable LCP distal humerus plate system from Synthes/Switzerland. Patient median age was 54 (min 14/ max 88). Fracture types were classified according to the AO classification. Extraarticular A fractures were documented in 3 (9%) cases, partial intra-articular fractures (type B) were seen in 4 (12%) patients. Complete intraarticular fractures were found in 27 (79%) cases. Three fractures were grade I° open, 6 fractures were grade II° open according to the Gustilo classification. In median after 10 months (min 8/ max 20) follow up was performed. Due to lost to follow up in one patient functional outcome was measured in 32 patients. Functional results were evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performence Score (MEPS). Results: According to MEPS, predominantly excellent and good results were achieved. The intent of stable fracture fixation to allow early physical therapy was reached in 31 patients. Failure of osteosynthesis making operative revision necessary occurred in 3 patients (1x implant failure, 2x loss of reduction). Mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 91 points (min 88.5/ max 100). Mean range of motion for extension/flexion was 110° (min 80/ max 140) and 170° (min 125/max 180) for pronation/supination. Only one patient regained unrestricted extension, mean loss of extension was 21° (min 10/ max 40). Mean Flexion up to 131° was achieved (min 125/ max 140). Postoperative complications were seen in eight cases (implant breakage, delayed union, lost of reduction). Conclusion: Despite postoperative complications and revision surgery, functional results achieved using the angular-stable LCP distal Humerus system are good or excellent in the majority of patients. Through angular-stable and multidirectional screw options fixation of the distal fragment is sufficient and periostal blood supply could be protected. Especially in combination of intraarticular fractures and osteoporotic bone stock the use of the LCP distal Humerus plate system is suitable and permits early physical therapy, promising a benefit for the elbow function

Abstract. Introduction. Intra-articular distal humerus OTA type C fractures are challenging to treat. When osteosynthesis is not feasible one can choose to do a primary arthroplasty of elbow or manage non-operatively. The indications for treatment of this fracture pattern are evolving. Objectives. We present our outcomes and complications when this cohort of patients was managed with either open reduction internal fixator (ORIF), elbow arthroplasty or non-operatively. Methods. Retrospective study to include OTA type C2 and C3 fracture distal humerus of 36 patients over the age of 50 years managed with all the three modalities. Patient's clinical notes and radiographs were reviewed. Results. Between 2016 and 2022, 21 patients underwent ORIF – group 1, 10 patients were treated with arthroplasty – group 2 and 5 were managed conservatively- group 3. The mean age of patients was 62 years in group 1, 70 years in group 2 and 76 years in group 3. The mean range of movement (ROM) arc achieved in the group 1 & 2 was 103 while group 3 was 68. At least follow up was 6 months. 5 patients in group 1 underwent metalwork removal and 2 patients in group 3 under arthroplasty. Conclusion. The outcomes of arthroplasty and ORIF are comparable, but reoperation rates and stiffness were higher in ORIF and conservative group. Surgeon choice and patient factors play important role in decision towards choosing treatment modality. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

The distal humerus represents 1% of all primary bone tumours. Endoprosthetic replacement can potentially improve function and provide good pain relief. We present out experience with the custom made Stanmore elbow endoprosthesis used after resection of malignant tumours of the distal humerus. Between 1970–2009 we carried out 19 endoprosthetic replacments for malignant tumours of the distal humerus. 10 were a result of metastasis and 9 were primary bone tumours. 7 patients had a pathological fracture as their first presentation and 3 had pathological fractures after the diagnosis was made. 11 patients died between 3 months to 16 year following surgery. The mean survival of the patient group was 7.1 years (range 3 months to 37 years). 4 patients underwent a revision EPR and one patient underwent two revision EPR's due to loosening. Two patients underwent maintenance procedures (rebushing) due to wear of the poly bushing. We have had no revisions since the design of hte implant was changed to a floppy hinge design. One patient underwent an above elbow amputation four years after surgery due to local recurrence. There were no early post operative infections. One patient developed a sinus requiring multiple wound explorations, one year after insertion of the endoprosthesis for a sarcoma. This patient was infection free till the time of death 3 years later. There were no nerve palsies, periprosthetic fractures or wound problems. The mean TES score was 72% (59–78%) in the surviving patients at review. As the majority of the patients were implanted for metastatic disease the initial reliablity and low complication rate of the procedure, in our series, confirms that this is a suitable reconstruction for patients in significant metastatic pain from a destructive lesion of the distal humerus, rapidly restoring function and relieving pain in a predictable manner

Advancements in treating distal humerus fractures. We will review and discuss approaches to the elbow to treat different types of fractures. We will discuss the role of soft tissue structures and how they affect elbow function. During this session, we will review the latest techniques for treating the complex articular fractures of the distal humerus to include capitellar and trochlear fractures. Techniques presented will address fixation, reconstruction, and salvaging of complex distal humerus fractures

Only 1% of all primary bone tumours are situated in the distal humerus. Destruction of the distal humerus by tumour is rare and reconstruction of the distal humerus is challenging. Because of the amount of bone loss following tumour excision, excision arthroplasty or arthrodesis is impossible and hence some form of reconstruction is usually required. Allograft reconstruction and hemiarthroplasty are uncommon and lead to an unpredictable outcome. Ten patients underwent endoprosthetic replacement of the distal humerus for bone tumours over a thirty one-year period. There were 8 primary and 2 secondary tumours and male to female ratio was 2:3. Average age of the patients was 47.5 years (15–76 years). Mean follow up was 8 years (9 months - 31 years). Four patients required further surgery, three having revision for asceptic loosening and two of these and one other later needing a rebushing. There were no permanent nerve palsies, infections, local recurrences or mechanical failures of the implant. Four patients died of their disease between 12 and 71 months after operation, all with their prosthesis working normally. Average flexion deformity was 15 degrees (0–35) and average flexion of these patients was 115 degrees (110–135). The average TES Score for these patients was 73% (29% to 93%). The activities which the patients found to be no problem (TES score more than 4.5 out of 5) were: brushing hair, drinking from a glass, putting on make up or shaving, picking up small items, turning a key in a lock, doing light household chores and socialising with friends, whilst activities that proved difficult (TES score less than 3 out of 5) were: gardening and lifting a box to an overhead shelf. Pain was not a problem and only 1 of the surviving patients reported ever having to use regular analgesics. Conclusions: Endoprosthetic replacement of the distal humerus and elbow joint is a satisfactory method of dealing with these unusual tumours in the long term

Fractures of the distal humerus present a challenge. The fractures are often intra-articular and the bone osteoporotic. The elbow tolerates surgery and immobilisation poorly, and it is difficult to secure rigid fixation. Union must be achieved and elbow motion preserved. The results of fixation of fractures of the distal humerus are unpredictable. Fixation with two plates at 90° angles to one another has become the standard against which all other treatment is measured. Following up patients for a mean of 24 months, the author conducted a prospective study evaluating posterior plating of the two columns of the distal humerus with reconstruction plates and intercondylar fixation. Between 1996 and 2000, 18 women and seven men with unilateral intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus were treated. Their mean age was 46 years (35 to 71). The fractures were classified according to the AO classification: there were 22 type-CII and three type-CIII. Four fractures were compound. One of two posterior approaches was used, either through the triceps aponeurosis or using an olecranon osteotomy. Postoperative management included prophylactic intravenous antibiotics for 48 hours and a posterior splint for 7 to 10 days. Active movement commenced once sutures were removed, but patients avoided active or resisted extension for six weeks. The mean time to union was 16 weeks. Patients attained a mean range of elbow movement of 105° (35° to 135°). One patient developed superficial sepsis but recovered after treatment with antibiotics. One patient with a compound injury developed a deep infection, which required multiple debridements, gentamycin beads and bone grafting to achieve union. There were no implant failures or cases of nerve paralysis. This study demonstrated no differences in functional outcome between triceps aponeurosis or olecranon osteotomy approach. Union and satisfactory functional results were achieved with posterior plating of the columns and intercondylar fixation

Abstract. Objectives. Operative management of distal humerus fractures is challenging. In the past, plates were manually contoured intraoperatively, however this was associated with high rates of fixation failure, nonunion and metalwork removal. Anatomically pre-contoured distal humerus locking plates have since been developed. Owing to the rarity of distal humeral fractures, literature regarding outcomes of anatomically pre-contoured locking plates is lacking and patient numbers are often small. The purpose of this study is to investigate the outcomes of these patients. Methods. We retrospectively identified patients with distal humeral fractures treated at our institution from 2009–2018. Inclusion criteria were patients with a distal humeral fracture, who underwent two-column plate fixation with anatomically pre-contoured locking plates. Clinical records and radiographs were reviewed to elicit outcome measures, including range of motion, complications and reoperation rate. Results. We identified 50 patients with mean age of 55 years (range 17–96 years). Mean length of follow up was 5.2 years. AO fracture classification Type A occurred most frequently (46%), followed by Type B (22%) and Type C (32%). Low energy mechanisms of injury predominated in 72% of patients. Mean time from injury to fixation was seven days. Mean range of motion at the elbow was 13–123o postoperatively. The overall reoperation rate was 22%, the majority of which required subsequent removal of prominent metalwork (18%). The incidence of nonunion, heterotopic ossification, deep infection and neuropathy requiring decompression was 2% each. Fixation failure occurred in only one patient however the fracture went on to heal. Conclusions. Previously reported reoperation rates with manually contoured plates were as high as 44%, which is twice our reported rate. Modern locking plates are no longer subject to implant failure (previously 27% reported metalwork failure rate). Likewise, heterotopic ossification and non-union have also reduced, highlighting that modern plates have significantly improved overall patient outcomes. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

Purpose: The supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus are the second most frequent fractures of the developing skeleton. Also their immediate and late complications are very often. The aim of this study is to describe their neurological complications. Material – methods: In our department 178 children were admitted with supracondylar fracture of the distal humerus during the period 1998–2002. Their age ranged from 2 to 16 years of age (the average was 7 years old, 63 girls and 115 boys). Forty-six patients were treated conservatively and 132 surgically. Neurological complications were appeared in 18 patients that had, according to Gartland classification, II and III type fractures. Manipulations for closed reduction had been made to 6 of them. Neurological deficit of the median nerve appeared to 10 patients, of the radial nerve to 6 patients and of ulnar nerve to 2 patients. The treatment of the fractures was surgical (open reduction, internal fixation with Kirschner wires and immobilization with a long arm cast for 4 weeks). The treatment of the neurological complications was conservative (free mobilization of the elbow was followed after the removal of the arm cast and Kirschner’s wires). Results: The results of the conservative treatment of the neurological complications of the supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus were excellent and the surgical exploration on the injured nerve was not necessary on any patient. The function of the nerves recovered completely in 2–3 months after the elbow’s fracture. Conclusion: The prognosis on the neurological complications of the upper limbs due to supracondylar fracture of the distal humerus is very good. They are successfully treated conservatively and the surgical exploration on the injured nerve is rarely necessary

Three 3mm transverse slices were sectioned from the distal cancellous region of seven fresh-frozen cadaveric humerii. Each slice was marked with a 3x3mm grid, and subjected to compressive testing using a flat cylindrical indenter (1.6mm diameter). Indentation modulus and strength were calculated for each site, and pooled into nine anatomically-defined regions. The most distal slice had higher moduli values (p< 0.05), and the posterior capitellar region had lower moduli values (p< 0.05). There were no slice or regional differences in strength. This suggests that surgical procedures requiring cancellous fixation utilize the most distal aspect of the humerus while avoiding the posterior capitellum. To quantify the indentation strength and modulus of distal humeral cancellous bone, and identify any regional variations. Cancellous bone modulus in the distal humerus decreases from distal to proximal. The posterior capitellum has a lower modulus than the other regions of the distal humerus. The influence of slice depth emphasizes the importance of minimizing the amount of bone removed during prosthetic replacement. Regional variations in modulus suggest that the posterior capitellum should be avoided during fixation of implants or placement of screws. Three 3mm transverse cancellous bone slices obtained from the distal end of each of seven fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens were subjected to compressive testing using a materials testing machine with a 1.6mm flat cylindrical indenter. Testing was performed in a 3x3mm grid. The indentation modulus and local strength were calculated for each test site, and then averaged into nine regions defined by the capitellum, medial and lateral trochlea, and anterior, central and posterior sections for each slice. Mean modulus was found to be 309.8±242.0 MPa (range: 2.9–1041.7 MPa). Yield strength averaged 4.4±2.5 MPa (range: 0.6–16.3 MPa). The highest modulus was found in the distal-most slice (p< 0.05). The lowest modulus region was the posterior capitellum (p< 0.05). There were no differences in strength between slices or across the nine regions. A comparison with proximal tibial cancellous bone properties suggests the distal humerus may carry loads approaching 30% of those at the knee, assuming that bone adapts to stress magnitudes. Funding: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council; University of Western Ontario

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new ONI Elbow Plate System for intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus in the elderly. Methods: 10 elder patients with complete intra-articular distal humerus fractures were treated by our new fixation system. The mean age of our patients was 76 years old (range 70 to 88 years). According to the AO/ASIF system, 6 cases were type C1, three cases were C2 and one case was C3. The ONI transcondylar plate conforms to the anatomical contour of the lateral column of the distal humerus and a locking mechanism between the plate portion and the transcondylar screw and the ONI medial plate conforms to the anatomical contour of the medial one (ONI Elbow Plate System). In all cases the ONI transcondylar plate was used at the lateral side of the fracture site, and either a cannulated cancellous screw (n=3) or an AO one-third tubular plate (n=4) or the ONI medial plate (n=3) at the medial side. The mean period of follow up was 32 months (24 to 48 months). Results: In all of the 10 cases, complete union was seen on radiographs, and alignment was almost maintained postoperatively. The assessment of results according to the modified Cassebaum’s rating score was 90.4. There were no cases of nonunion or malunion. Conclusion: Our data showed that the ONI Elbow System for treatment of this fracture in the elderly produced consistently good results even in cases with a small osteoporotic fragment of the distal humerus

Aims: The aim of this paper is to present our experience in the treatment of comminuted fractures of the distal humerus. Our surgical target was to reconstruct all three edges of the triangle to achieve the best functional result. Methods: In a period of 5 years, 28 patients who suffered a comminuted fracture of the distal humerus were operated with open reduction and internal fixation. Those were 21 males and 7 females with a mean age of 25 years. According to AO/ASIF classification there were 5 patients with A1 fracture, 3 pts A2, 6 B2, 8 B3, 3 C1, 1 C2 and 2 pt C3. In 25 patients was applied posterior approach after transolecranon osteotomy and lateral approach in the rest 3 patients. All patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically. Results: The mean time of follow up was 12 months. In 7 patients full range of motion was achieved, in 8 functional range of motion and in 4 limited but in functional range. The mean range of elbow flexion – extension arc was 115°. Complications included postoperative paresis of ulnar or radial nerve, ectopic bone formation and material failure. Conclusions: The comminuted intraarticular fractures of the distal humerus demand careful preoperative planning, extensive but atraumatic exposures and the use of the appropriate fixation materials for each case. Low complication rate and excellent functional results are ensured

Introduction: Treatment and outcome of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and distal humerus fractures is not well established. Methods: Between 1982 and 2002 twenty-four elbows in twenty-two patients (eleven men, eleven women) treated for acute distal humerus fractures were retrospectively reviewed. The average age at time of the fracture was 64 years. Eleven elbows were immediately treated with a total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) type Coonrad-Morrey (CM), six elbows had underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), and seven elbows were referred to our institution after failed ORIF elsewhere and were revised with an TEA (CM). Results: At an average follow-up of 52 months the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) averaged in the eleven elbows with an immediate TEA 96 points and in the six elbows with ORIF 93 points (p=0.79). In the seven elbows with TEA after failed ORIF there was a trend towards a less favorable outcome (MEPS: 86 points) but the differences was not significant compared to immediate TEA (p=0.31) and ORIF (p=0.53). Patients with failed ORIF and a subsequent TEA had an average of 3 operation per elbow with one patient ending in elbow resection after an infected TEA. Patients with immediate TEA had an average of 1.3 operations and patients with successful ORIF 1.2 interventions. Discussion and Conclusion: Distal humerus fractures in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can be treated successfully with an immediate TEA or ORIF. There is a trend towards a poorer clinical outcome in patients with TEA after failed ORIF

Introduction:. Distal humerus fractures as well as elbow fracture dislocation are often accompanied by soft tissue damage that warrants early fixation with an external fixator. The distal humerus is a hazardous area for placement of an external fixator due to the close proximity of the radial nerve to the humerus in this area. No known safe zone has been identified on the lateral border of the humerus to avoid radial nerve damage. The aim of this study was to record the incidence of radial nerve damage by placing two 4 mm pins into the humerus and to note the relation of the nerve to the pins. Methods:. Two 4 mm pins used to fix an external fixator were drilled into the lateral border of the humerus at points 100 mm and 70 mm proximal to the lateral epicondyle of both arms of 39 cadavers. The 30 mm interval between the pins is the interval between the pins in a pinblock of a commonly-used external fixator. The arms were dissected by medical students and the incidence of radial nerve damage was recorded. Statistical analysis was done using a Fischer's exact test to identify the incidence of nerve damage relative to pin insertion. The number of damaged nerves was compared to the number of non-damaged nerves. A design based Chi Square test was carried out to test left and right arms. The proportions of interest were estimated along a 95% confidence interval. Results:. The radial nerve was hit (damaged) by 56.4% of the proximal and 20.5% of the distal pins. The radial nerve ran posterior to the proximal pin in 2.57% of arms and 0% to the distal pin. Conclusion:. Although no clear safe zone could be established, pins should be placed closer than 100 mm from the lateral epicondyle and as posterior on the humerus as possible to minimize the risk for radial nerve damage. Keywords: Radial nerve, external fixation, humerus fractures

The primary aim of this study was to identify risk factors for developing neuritis and its impact on outcome following open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of distal humerus fractures. Patients were identified from a prospective trauma database (1995–2010). All fractures of the distal humerus (OA-OTA Type A, B, C) managed with ORIF were included. Prospective long-term follow up was collected by telephone. Demographic data, fracture classification, intraoperative details (time to surgery, tourniquet, approach, fixation technique, nerve transposition), subsequent surgeries, presence of postoperative nerve palsy, complications and range of motion were collected. The Broberg and Morrey Elbow Score and DASH score were used as functional outcome measures. Eighty-two patients, mean age 50(range, 13–93) were included. 16% (13/82) developed post-operative ulnar neuritis, 7% (6/82) radial neuritis and 5% (4/82) longterm nonspecific dysaesthesia. Short-term (mean 10 months, range 1–120, collected in 82 patients) and long-term (mean 6 years, range 4–18, collected in 45%, 34/75, of living patients) was completed. In patients with nerve complication: average Broberg and Morrey score was 86 (76% good/excellent), average DASH was 24.7(range, 3.3–100) and Oxford Elbow Score was 39.5(range, 18–48). Compared to: 94 (96% good/excellent), 17.7(range, 0–73.3) and 43.8(range, 17–48) in patients without. Mean pain score was 3.7 in patients with nerve complication compared to 2 without. Nerve complications were seen with increased frequency in young, male patients with high energy and Type C injuries. Nerve complication following ORIF of distal humerus fractures is relatively common. They have detrimental impact on functional outcome. Certain groups appear to be at increased risk

Purpose: To evaluate the functional outcome following internal fixation of bicondylar distal humerus fractures (AO type C) using the ACUMED modified titanium plates. Material-Methods: Fourteen patients (9 male, 5 female) aging 18 to 78 years (av. 54 y.) with bicondylar distal humerus fractures, between September 2002 and May 2004, were included in our study. All of them underwent open reduction and internal fixation. The articular surface was reduced through a transolecranic approach using one or two compression screws and the fractures was then fixated using the modified titanium ACUMED plates. Results: Postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 24 months (av. 12 m.). The results were evaluated using the Mayo Clinic Score. The mean range of elbow flexion-extension was 115o. Nine patients had an excellent/good result, 3 had affair and 2 a poor result. One patient underwent a second procedure for symptomatic metalwork. In one case there was soft tissue infection that resolved successfully with antibiotic administration. Conclusion: The internal fixation of bicondylar AO (type C) distal humerus fractures with the ACUMED plates through a transolecranic approach is an extensive but atraumatic operation that offers excellent reduction and a stable osteosynthesis leading to a good functional outcome

We analysed the outcome of the Coonrad-Morrey total elbow replacement used for fracture of the distal humerus in elderly patients with no evidence of inflammatory arthritis and compared the results for early versus delayed treatment. We studied a total of 32 patients with 15 in the early treatment group and 17 in the delayed treatment group. The mean follow-up was 56.1 months (18 to 88). The percentage of excellent to good results based on the Mayo elbow performance score was not significantly different, 84% in the early group and 79% in the delayed group. Subjective satisfaction was 92% in both the groups. One patient in the early group developed chronic regional pain syndrome and another type 4 aseptic loosening. Two elbows in the early group also showed type 1 radiological loosening. Two patients in the delayed group had an infection, two an ulnar nerve palsy, one developed heterotopic ossification and one type 4 aseptic loosening. Two elbows in this group also showed type 1 radiological loosening. The complication rates in the early and delayed treatment group were 13% and 29% respectively. The Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis for the early and delayed treatment groups was 93% at 88 months and 76% at 84 months, respectively. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups. We conclude that total elbow replacement provides a preditable and reproducible outcome in terms of pain relief and functional range of movement in elderly osteoporotic patients with difficult distal humerus fractures

Purpose: In the younger population there is substantial body of evidence that the outcome is better following open reduction and internal fixation of distal humerus fractures. In the elderly however, there is a need to assess the value of internal fixation of these fractures where osteoporosis is almost a rule than exception and poses considerable challenge to even very experienced trauma surgeon. The purpose of this study therefore was to assess the functional outcome of operative fixation of fractures of the distal humerus in a cohort of elderly patients (aged 75 and above). The reproducibility of four different scoring systems is also evaluated. Patients and Methods: Between 1996 and 2000 out 125 patients who were treated in our institution, elderly patients above 75 years of age were studied. Demographic data such as age, sex, associated injuries and the pre-admission elbow function were recorded. All the fractures were classified according to the AO/ASIF system. At final follow up elbow function was analyzed using OTA’s rating system and these results were compared using three other scoring systems (Jupiter’s criteria, Aitkin’s and Rorabeck criteria, and the scoring system of Caja et al). Treatment options, surgical or non surgical was based on the medical condition of the patient and the personality of the fracture. Intra-operative details including ulnar nerve transposition, olecranon osteotomy and quality of fixation were recorded and analysed. Serial radiographs were studied in detail for union, loss of reduction, certain prognostic indicators such as anterior tilt of distal humerus, cubitus angle, any articular step, gap, heterotopic ossification and development of degenerative changes. Radiological analysis was correlated with functional outcome. The minimum follow up was 16 months (range 16–92). Results: Out of 125 patients, 29 (23.2%) were above the age of 75 (5 male). The mean age of the patients was 84.6 years (range 75–100). One patient was lost to follow-up. In total 28 patients were studied with 29 fractures (one bilateral), five open (Gustilo’s grade I). Mechanism of injury included 24 falls and 4 motor vehicle accidents. In seven cases associated injuries (three with ipsilateral upper limb injuries) were noted. Twenty patients (69.8%) had noticeable osteopenia in the x rays. According to the AO/ASIF classification, there were eight type A, eight type B and thirteen type C fractures. Eight patients were treated non-operatively (3 type A, 2 type B, 3 type C) and 21 (5 type A, 6 type B, 10 type C) operatively. The injury-surgery interval ranged from 6hours to 5days. An olecranon osteotomy (chevron type, Jupiter’s technique) was performed in 21 cases, 2 underwent Triceps ‘tongue’ reflection and 7 had triceps splitting. Only one case had anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve and none in the series developed ulnar nerve symptoms. Local complications included one case of deep infection (leading to non-union), three cases of superficial infection treated with antibiotics, 3 non-unions (two affecting the fracture and the other one the site of the olecranon osteotomy). The former patients declined further intervention and the latter patient was asymptomatic. One patient needed removal of olecranon metal ware, one developed olecranon bursitis. Heterotopic ossification was present in one patient with no effect on the elbow function. Overall, the mean loss of extension was 22.5° (range 5–40°) and the mean flexion 98.6° (ranged 40o–132°). In the non-operative group the mean loss of extension and mean flexion achieved were 33.5oand 70.1° respectively whereas in the operative group were 22.7oand 106.6°. OTA grading revealed 3‘excellent’, 9‘good’, 7‘fair’and 2 ‘poor’ results in the operated group whereas in the non-operative group there were no ‘excellent’, 2‘good’, 3‘fair’, 3‘poor’results. It is of note that in the non-operative group there was a 37.5% incidence of poor results significantly higher than the operative group. The number of ‘acceptable’ (excellent + good) results was higher in the surgically treated group (52%) than in the non-surgically treated group (25.0%). The functional outcome was most closely related to anatomical reduction of the fracture (particularly articular step < 2mm) and anterior tilt of the distal humerus and was unaffected by the injury-surgery interval. It was found that the Jupiter score was less rigid for the range of movement but produced similar scores to OTA with less potential inter observer error compared to the two other scoring systems. 18 of the 21(85.7%) the patients had no limitation of rotation. Conclusion & Significance: This study supports the view that the functional outcome following distal humerus fractures is better with operative treatment in patients above the age of 75. Out of the 4 functional assessment scoring systems evaluated only the OTA and Jupiter gave similar results

Purpose of the study: Appropriate treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus in children remains a controversial topic. Blount reduction followed by percutaneous or open pin fixation have been widely used. The purpose of this study was to analyze outcome after open surgical treatment of these fractures in pediatric trauma victims. Material and methods: The study included all pediatric patients who underwent surgical treatment for displaced supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus over a ten year period. Fractures were classified III or IV according to Lagrange and Rigault. Cross pinning was used in all cases, via a posterior approach or a double lateral and medial approach. The mechanism of the fracture and pre- and postoperative vascular and neurological complications were noted. The long-term assessment included standard x-rays of the elbow joint (ap and lateral views) and a physical examination to search for misalignment and residual neurological disorders. Results: We identified 110 patients, 61 boys and 49 girls, mean age 7.61 years (range 2–15 years). There were 96 grade IV fractures and 24 grade III. Mechanisms were: sports accident (n=44), fall from height (n=36), fall from own height (n=30). A neurological complication was observed in 29 children, skin opening in three and regressive vascular damage in six. A posterior approach was used for 95 patients and a double approach for 15. There was one revision for secondary displacement. Five patients developed transient paresthesia of the ulnar nerve which resolved without sequela. Three patients presented a moderately hypertrophic or deformed callus which had little functional impact. One patient with an open fracture required surgerical arthrolysis for stiffness six months after fracture. Discussion and conclusion: Open surgery is a very reliable treatment for supracondylar elbow fractures with a low rate of short- and long-term complications. Ulnar nerve palsy, the classical complication of percutaneous cross pinning, can be attributed to the medial pin (7–16% of cases in the literature). The Blount method and Judet or Métaizeau fixations can sometimes be complicated by secondary displacement or a deformed callus, complications which were almost never observed in our series. The results obtained in this series favor our approach for open surgery for the treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus in children

Trans-articular coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus pose a significant challenge to the surgeon in obtaining an anatomical reduction and rigid fixation and thereby return of good function. A variety of approaches have been described which include the extended lateral and anterolateral approaches and arthroscopically-assisted fixation for non-comminuted fractures. Fixation methods include open or percutaneous cannulated screws and headless compression screws directed either anterior to posterior or posterior to anterior. We describe an illustrated, novel approach to this fracture which is minimally invasive but enables an anatomical reduction to be achieved. A 15 year old male presented with a Bryan and Morrey type 4 fracture as described by McKee involving the left distal humerus. He was placed in a lateral position with the elbow over a support. A posterior longitudinal incision and a 6cm triceps split from the tip of the olecranon was made. The olecranon fossa was exposed and a fenestration made with a 2.5mm drill and nibblers as in the OK (Outerbridge-Kashiwagi) procedure. A bone lever was then passed though the fenestration and used to reduce the capitellar and trochlear fracture fragments into an anatomical position with use of an image intensifier to confirm reduction. The fracture was then fixed with two headless compression screws from posterior to anterior into the capitellar and trochlear fragments (see images). Early mobilisation and rehabilitation were commenced. Follow-up clinical examination and radiographs at six weeks revealed excellent range-of-motion and function with anatomical bony union. We believe that this novel approach to this fracture reduces the amount of soft tissue dissection associated with conventional approaches and their associated risks and also enables earlier return to function with restoration of anatomy