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Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_9 | Pages 22 - 22
17 Apr 2023
Murugesu K Decruz J Jayakumar R
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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


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 97-B, Issue SUPP_16 | Pages 41 - 41
1 Dec 2015
Silva MD Wircker P Leitão F Martins R Côrte-Real N
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The aim of this abstract is to show that acute osteomyelitis is one of the most feared complication of orthopedic surgery. A rapid and aggressive treatment is mandatory in order to avoid significant bone loss, joint destruction and, in most cases, salvage of the limb. After apparent cure of the infection, sequelae must be addressed. In this case, the joint destruction was important, so reconstruction procedures where impossible. In a superficial and relatively small joint such as the elbow, it is preferred to do an arthrodesis than an arthroplasty because the risk of reactivation of the infection with implant involvement is very important.

We present a case report of a 69 years old woman, who had a supra-intra-condylar fracture (AO 13-C1) of the right humerus. She was treated with open reduction and internal fixation with 2 internal lag screws and 2 external lag screws. After 6 weeks, she was admitted with a dislocated elbow associated with pain, loss of limb function, cubita nerve palsy and a purulent discharge from the surgical wound. She started vancomycin and was submitted to surgery with debriment, hardware removal and fixation with an external fixator was used. The local signs of infection disappeared progressively. After normalization of the laboratory parameters of infection, the patient was submitted to an elbow arthrodesis using a posterior contour plate.

The elbow achieved solid fixation and infection was eradicated, at least for the time being, allowing the patient to use the upper limb in her daily live activities.

The treatment of post operative acute osteomyilits is challenging, In this case, after apparent solution of the infection, a solid fixation of the elbow was achieved, allowing the use of the upper limb in the patient daily activities.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 87-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 180 - 180
1 Apr 2005
De Cupis V Chillemi C Palmacci M
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Numerous sequelae are reported after treatment, conservative or surgical, for proximal humerus fractures, which may result in shoulder pain and disability. The treatment of these conditions is still controversial. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the results achieved with the use of non-constrained shoulder prostheses.

Twelve patients (seven men, five women) were included in the study. The indications for prosthetic shoulder replacement were pain and loss of function that did not respond to medical and physical therapy. All the patients were clinically evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively with the Constant scoring system and by X-ray.

Fracture sequelae were grouped in type A, humeral head collapse (n=5); type B, locked fracture/dislocation (n=3); type C non-union of the surgical neck (n=2); and type D malunion of the tuberosity (n=2). In all the patients the same prosthetic implant (Aequalis, Tornier, France), and the same post-operative rehabilitation programme were employed. The mean follow-up was 4 years.

The best results were observed in the sequelae grouped as type A and B with an impressive reduction in pain and good recovery of activity. At the last follow-up no radiological signs of implant mobilisation were registered.

In our small series shoulder replacement seems to be the treatment of choice, in particular for sequelae of intracapsular impacted fractures of the proximal humerus. A larger series and a longer follow-up are still required to clarify these results.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 95-B, Issue SUPP_9 | Pages 31 - 31
1 Feb 2013
Kassam A Ainsworth B Hawken R Ramesh R Conboy V
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Patients using a neutral rotation brace post proximal humerus fracture fixation have improved functional outcome and external rotation of the shoulder compared to patients using a standard polysling.

Patients who have proximal humerus fracture fixation with extramedullary plates and screws have a risk of reduced range of movement especially external rotation. Gerber et al showed that the average external rotation after fixation of proximal humeral fractures was 39 degrees in their patient cohort compared to a normal range of 80–100 degrees. This can lead to reduced function and poor patient related outcomes. Geiger et al showed that in a cohort of 28 patients, poor functional outcome was noted in 39.3% with an average Constant-Murley Score of 57.9.

Current practice is to utilise a polysling holding the shoulder in internal rotation post-shoulder fixation. Patients usually wear the sling for up to 6 weeks. We believe that this increases the risk of adhesion formation with the shoulder in internal rotation in the shoulder joint. Therefore this can cause loss of external rotation in the shoulder joint. We believe that holding the shoulder in a neutral alignment, with a neutral rotation brace post-fixation, will enable an increased rate of external rotation post-operatively thus improving external rotation and functional outcome

There is currently no literature comparing the different slings used post-operatively and we believe that this study would be the first of its kind. It would have a substantial change in the way clinicians manage proximal humeral fractures and will potentially reduce the numbers of re-operations to divide adhesions or perform capsular releases. Secondary benefits include a potential earlier return to full function and work and improved patient satisfaction.

Study proposal: Prospective Randomised Controlled Trial of the neutral rotation brace compared to the standard, currently used, polysling post proximal humerus fracture fixation. No blinding of either participants or clinicians. Three surgeons utilising similar fixation techniques via the deltopectoral approach and using Philos plate fixation (Synthes Ltd.). Standardised post-operative rehabilitation protocol for all patients.

Follow up: clinical review and postal outcomes for 1 year

Primary outcomes: Post operative functional outcome scores (Oxford, DASH, EQL) obtained at 6 weeks, 9 weeks, 3 months and 1 year). These will be compared to scores taken pre-operatively.

Secondary outcomes: Clinical review at 6 weeks, 3 months and 1 year with range of movement measurements. Radiographs also taken at 6 weeks and 3 months to assess union. Patient questionnaire at 1 year (with outcome scores) assessing patient return to work, complications and patient satisfaction

Inclusion criteria: Proximal humeral fractures requiring operative intervention with extramedullary plate fixation (i.e. fractures displaced by 1cm and/or angulated by 45 degrees or more). Age>18.

Exclusion Criteria: Patients having intra-operative findings of complete Pectoralis major rupture or if operative exposure requires complete Pectoralis major tenotomy. (These patients need to be held in internal rotation with a standard polysling to allow healing of the Pectoralis major tendon).


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 95-B, Issue SUPP_1 | Pages 150 - 150
1 Jan 2013
Bhatt H Halder S
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Aim. Treatment for distal third shaft fractures of humerus is very challenging especially if its comminuted and bone is osteopenic. They are commonly treated with plating. Plating has complications of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy. We report our case series of distal third fractures of humerus treated with retrograde Halder Humeral Nail. Materials and methods. Since 1994 to 2010 we have 576 fractures of humerus treated with retrograde Halder Humeral nail. Of these 45 were distal third extra articular fractures of humerus. Average age of patients at the time of surgery was 30.4 years (Range 15–82 years, Median 33 years). Of 45 patients 26 were females and 19 males.3 out of 45 had non union at the time of presentation. The nail was locked distally with one or two screws and proximally with a screw and tripwire. The entry point of the nail was roof of olecranon fossa (contrary to standard retrograde nails where it is an inch above olecranon fossa) This design of nail allows it be used for even very distal fractures. All patients were followed till clinical and radiological signs of union. 1 patient was lost to follow up. Results. Average time to fracture healing was 13.9 weeks (Range 9–36 weeks). There were 2 cases of non union, one healed at 9 months with 2. nd. surgery. The other non union was asymptomatic and did not agree for further surgery. There was one reported case of infection.7 patients had nail removal electively on request. All the patients achieved full range of elbow and shoulder movement. No reported cases of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy. Conclusion. Our results of distal third fractures of humerus treated with retrograde Halder Humeral Nail are excellent. It avoids big exposure as needed in plating and complication of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 78 - 78
1 Dec 2022
Willms S Matovinovic K Kennedy L Yee S Billington E Schneider P
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The widely used Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) estimates a 10-year probability of major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) using age, sex, body mass index, and seven clinical risk factors, including prior history of fracture. Prior fracture is a binary variable in FRAX, although it is now clear that prior fractures affect future MOF risk differently depending on their recency and site. Risk of MOF is highest in the first two years following a fracture and then progressively decreases with time – this is defined as imminent risk. Therefore, the FRAX tool may underestimate true fracture risk and result in missed opportunities for earlier osteoporosis management in individuals with recent MOF. To address this, multipliers based on age, sex, and fracture type may be applied to baseline FRAX scores for patients with recent fractures, producing a more accurate prediction of both short- and long-term fracture risk. Adjusted FRAX estimates may enable earlier pharmacologic treatment and other risk reduction strategies. This study aimed to report the effect of multipliers on conventional FRAX scores in a clinical cohort of patients with recent non-hip fragility fractures. After obtaining Research Ethics Board approval, FRAX scores were calculated both before and after multiplier adjustment, for patients included in our outpatient Fracture Liaison Service who had experienced a non-hip fragility fracture between June 2020 and November 2021. Patients age 50 years or older, with recent (within 3 months) forearm (radius and/or ulna) or humerus fractures were included. Exclusion criteria consisted of patients under the age of 50 years or those with a hip fracture. Age- and sex-based FRAX multipliers for recent forearm and humerus fractures described by McCloskey et al. (2021) were used to adjust the conventional FRAX score. Low, intermediate and high-risk of MOF was defined as less than 10%, 10-20%, and greater than 20%, respectively. Data are reported as mean and standard deviation of the mean for continuous variables and as proportions for categorical variables. A total of 91 patients with an average age of 64 years (range = 50-97) were included. The majority of patients were female (91.0%), with 73.6% sustaining forearm fractures and 26.4% sustaining humerus fractures. In the forearm group, the average MOF risk pre- and post-multiplier was 16.0 and 18.8, respectively. Sixteen percent of patients (n = 11) in the forearm group moved from intermediate to high 10-year fracture risk after multiplier adjustment. Average FRAX scores before and after adjustment in the humerus group were 15.7 and 22.7, respectively, with 25% (n = 6) of patients moving from an intermediate risk to a high-risk score. This study demonstrates the clinically significant impact of multipliers on conventional FRAX scores in patients with recent non-hip fractures. Twenty-five percent of patients with humerus fractures and 16% of patients with forearm fractures moved from intermediate to high-risk of MOF after application of the multiplier. Consequently, patients who were previously ineligible for pharmacologic management, now met criteria. Multiplier-adjusted FRAX scores after a recent fracture may more accurately identify patients with imminent fracture risk, facilitating earlier risk reduction interventions


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_9 | Pages 90 - 90
17 Apr 2023
Kale S Singh S Dhar S
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To evaluate the functional outcome of open humerus diaphyseal fractures treated with the Three-stitch technique of antegrade humerus nailing. This is a retrospective study conducted at the Department of Orthopaedics in D. Y. Patil University, School of Medicine, Navi Mumbai, India. The study included 25 patients who were operated on from January 2019 to April 2021 and follow-ups done till May 2022. Inclusion criteria were adult patients with open humerus diaphyseal fractures (Gustilo-Anderson Classification). All patients with closed fractures, skeletally immature patients, and patients with associated head injury were excluded from the study. All patients were operated on with a minimally invasive Three-stitch technique for antegrade humerus nailing. All patients were evaluated based on DASH score. Out of the 25 patients included in the study, all patients showed complete union. The mean age of the patients was 40.4 years (range 23–66 years). The average period for consolidation of fracture was 10.56 weeks (range 8–14 weeks). The DASH score ranged from 0 to 15.8 with an average score of 2.96. Five patients reported complications with three patients of post-operative infection and delayed wound healing and two patients with screw loosening. All complications were resolved with proper wound care and the complete union was noted. None of the patients had an iatrogenic neurovascular injury. Three-stitch antegrade nailing technique is a novel method to treat diaphyseal humerus fractures and provides excellent results. It has various advantages such as minimal invasiveness, minimal injury to the rotator cuff, fewer infection rates, minimal iatrogenic injuries, and good functional outcomes. Therefore, this treatment modality can be effectively used for open humerus diaphyseal fractures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_8 | Pages 26 - 26
10 May 2024
Mauiliu S
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Titanium Elastic Nails have been around for the last 40 years, but it has never been introduced properly in the Pacific especially in Samoa in the management of femoral & in severely displaced forearm fractures in the paediatric age group & also Adult upper limb Trauma. This paper looks at the cases treated in TTM Hospital (Apia, Samoa) from June 2019- June 2023, looking at common injury patterns, indications for fixation and the cost benefit to the family and hospital, in terms of early rehabilitation and improving the length of stay in hospital pre-Tens nail era from 6–8 weeks to 1–2 weeks in hospital. 29 cases were treated with TENs concept during this period, 17 femoral fractures, 10 forearm fractures & 1 humerus fracture. Lastly this is very useful skill and tool to have in every hospital in the Pacific Islands, through proper training to prevent long term complications


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_20 | Pages 18 - 18
12 Dec 2024
Rai A Nanda R Ponugoti N Saunders M
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Objectives. Distal humerus fractures in elderly population are often comminuted and presents multiple challenges. When managed with fixation the results are often complicated with stiffness, pain, and reduced function while total elbow replacement is fraught with lifelong restrictions on load bearing which can significantly affect elderly patients who rely assistive devices for ambulation. Elbow hemiarthroplasty however, presents a viable alternative in these cases. This series evaluates the results of the distal humerus hemiarthroplasty in a single centre. Designs and methods. Data was collected retrospectively. Comprehensive case reviews were done to collect demographic, intra-operative and post-operative data. Fractures were classified as per AO classification. The primary outcome was functional outcome and range of motion (ROM). The secondary outcomes were complications and patient satisfaction. Results. 22 cases were included in this study from 2016 – 2023 majority being females (n=18). Mean age was 74years (SD −11.2). Majority fractures were AO type C3 (n=15) with two A2 type fractures managed for non-union. Pre-existing bone on bone arthritis was present in 3 cases and CT scan was done for 12 patients to assess fracture configuration. Excluding those treated for non- union the median time between fracture and surgery was 8.5 days. Follow-up of more than 6 months was available for 16 patients with median follow-up of 18 months. ROM was available for 17 patients with 13 (50%) patients having functional ROM. No patients had full extension and there was a mean lag of 20. 0. Mean flexion was 118.2. 0. Nearly 2/3. rd. patients (73%- n=16) were satisfied with the surgery with no problems in activity of daily living. Complications seen were ulnar neuropathy (n=3), heterotopic ossification(n=2) and periprosthetic fracture (n=1). Conclusion. This single centre study suggests good outcomes following distal humerus hemiarthroplasty. It is a reasonable alternative to fixation and total elbow arthroplasty in complex fractures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 102-B, Issue SUPP_8 | Pages 71 - 71
1 Aug 2020
Meldrum A Schneider P Harrison T Kwong C Archibold K
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Olecranon Osteotomy is a common approach used in the management of intraarticular distal humerus fractures. Significant complication rates have been associated with this procedure, including non-union rates of 0–13% and implant removal rates between 12–86%. This study is a multicentre retrospective study involving the largest cohort of olecranon osteotomies in the literature, examining implant fixation types, removal rates and associated complications. Patients were identified between 2007 and 2017 (minimum one year follow-up) via Canadian Classification of Health Interventions (CCI) coding and ICD9/10 codes by our health region's data information service. CCI intervention codes were used to identify patients who underwent surgery for their fracture with an olecranon osteotomy. Reasons for implant removal were identified from a chart review. Our primary outcome was implant removal rates. Categorical data was assessed using Chi square test and Fischer's Exact test. Ninety-nine patients were identified to have undergone an olecranon osteotomy for treatment of a distal humerus fracture. Twenty patients had their osteotomy fixed with a plate and screws and 67 patients were fixed with a tension band wire. Eleven patients underwent “screw fixation”, consisting of a single screw with or without the addition of a wire. One patient had placement of a cable-pin system. Of patients who underwent olecranon osteotomy fixation, 34.3% required implant removal. Removal rates were: 28/67 for TBW (41.8%), 6/20 plates (30%), 0/1 cable-pin and 0/11 for osteotomies fixed with screw fixation. Screw fixation was removed less frequently than TBW p<.006. TBW were more commonly removed than all other fixation types p<.043. Screws were less commonly removed than all other fixation types p<.015. TBW were more likely to be removed for implant irritation than plates, p<.007, and all other implants p<.007. The average time to removal was 361 days (80–1503 days). A second surgeon was the surgeon responsible for the removal in 10/34 cases (29%). TBWs requiring removal were further off the olecranon tip than those not removed p=.006. TBWs were associated with an OR of 3.29 (CI 1.10–9.84) for implant removal if implanted further than 1mm off bone. Nonunion of the osteotomy occurred in three out of 99 patients (3%). K-wires through the anterior ulnar cortex did not result in decreased need for TBW removal. There was no relation between plate prominence and the need for implant removal. There was no association between age and implant removal. The implant removal rate was 34% overall. Single screw fixation was the best option for osteotomy fixation, as 0/11 required hardware removal, which was statistically less frequent than TBW at 28/67. Screw fixation was removed less frequently than TBW and screw fixation was less commonly removed than all other fixation types. Only 6/20 (30%) plates required removal, which is lower than previously published rates. Overall, TBW were more commonly removed than all other fixation types and this was also the case if hardware irritation was used as the indication for removal. Nonunion rates of olecranon osteotomy were 3%


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 100-B, Issue SUPP_15 | Pages 65 - 65
1 Nov 2018
Hoekzema N
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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


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_15 | Pages 22 - 22
7 Nov 2023
Du Plessis J Kazee N Lewis A Steyn S Van Deventer S
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The choice of whether to perform antegrade intramedullary nailing (IMN) or plate fixation (PF) poses a conundrum for the surgeon who must strike the balance between anatomical restoration while reducing elbow and shoulder functional impairment. Most humeral middle third shaft fractures are amenable to conservative management given the considerable acceptable deformity and anatomical compensation by patients. This study is concerned with the patient reported outcomes regarding shoulder and elbow function for IMN and PF respectively. A prospective cohort study following up all the cases treated surgically for middle third humeral fractures from 2016 to 2022 at a single centre. Telephonically an analogue pain score, an American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score for shoulder function and the Oxford Elbow score (OES) for elbow function were obtained. One hundred and three patients met the inclusion criteria. Twenty four patients participated in the study, fifteen had IMN (62.5%) and nine had PF (37.5%.). The shoulder function outcomes showed no statistical difference with an average ASES score of sixty-six for the IMN group and sixty-nine for the PF group. Women and employed individuals expressed greater functional impairment. Hand dominance has no impact on the scores of elbow and shoulder function post operatively. The impairment of abduction score post antegrade nailing was higher in the antegrade nailing group than the plated group. The OES demonstrated greater variance in elbow function in the PF group with the IMN group expressing greater elbow disfunction. This study confirms that treatment of middle third humerus shaft fractures by plate fixation is marginally superior to antegrade intramedullary nailing in preserving elbow function and abduction ability


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 100-B, Issue SUPP_14 | Pages 6 - 6
1 Nov 2018
Nuritdinow T Holzschuh J Keppler A Lederer C Boecker W Kammerlander C Daumer M Fuermetz J
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Capturing objective data of the postoperative changes in the mobility of patients is expected to generate a better understanding of the effect of postoperative treatment. Until recently, the collection of gait-related data was limited to controlled clinical environments. The emergence of accurate wearable accelerometers with sufficient runtime, however, enables the long-term measurement and extraction of mobility parameters, such as “real-world walking speed”. An interim analysis of 1967 hours of actibelt data (3D accelerometer, 100 Hz) from 5 patients (planned total 20) with a femur fracture and 5 patients (planned total 20) with a humerus fracture from a geriatric population at two different sites of the university hospital of the Ludwigs-Maximilian-University in Munich was performed. Mobility data was captured during several days of stationary treatment starting directly after surgery and during a short follow-up visit six weeks after the surgery. Preliminary results show an increase of the mean walking speed between the two visits independent of the type of fracture. Patients with a humerus fracture tended to walk faster than patients with a femur fracture during both visits. The data also reveals an unexpected low level of mobility during the stationary stay. Mobile accelerometry can be used to evaluate different postoperative mobilisation strategies and even provide near-time feedback in geriatric trauma patients


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 100-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 4 - 4
1 May 2018
Batten T Sin-Hindge C Brinsden M Guyver P
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We aimed to assess the functional outcomes of elderly patients with isolated comminuted distal humerus fractures that were managed non-operatively. Retrospective analysis of patients over 65 years presenting to our unit between 2005–2015 was undertaken. 67 patients were identified, 7 had immediate TEA, 41 died and 5 were lost to follow-up leaving 14 available for review. Mean Follow-up was 55 months(range 17–131) Patient functional outcomes were measured using VAS scores for pain at rest and during activity, and the Oxford Elbow Score (OES). Need for conversion to TEA and complications were recorded. The mean age at injury was 76 years(range 65–90) of which 79%(11/14) were females. The mean score on the OES was 46(range 29 – 48). The mean VAS score at rest was 0.4(range 0–6) and the mean VAS score during activity was 1.3(range 0–9). 93%(13/14) of patients reported no pain (0 out of 10 on the numeric scale for pain) in their injured elbow at rest and 79%(11/14) reported no pain during activity. No patients converted to TEA and there were no complications. Non-operative management of comminuted distal humerus fractures should be considered for elderly patients, avoiding surgical risks whilst giving satisfactory functional outcomes in this low demand group


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXI | Pages 182 - 182
1 May 2012
R. B K. W W. A D. B A. G P. F J. W R. B
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Introduction. Pathologic humerus fractures secondary to metastases are associated with significant pain, morbidity, loss of function, and diminished quality of life. Here we report our experience with stabilisation using intramedullary polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement and non-locking plates. Methods. A retrospective review was undertaken of patients treated at a tertiary musculoskeletal oncology centre from 1989 to 2009. Patients who underwent surgery for an impending or completed pathologic humerus fracture with a diagnosis of metastatic disease or myeloma were included. All patients underwent intralesional curettage of the tumour followed by fixation with intramedullary PMMA and plating. Results. Clinical records were available for 63 patients who underwent the above procedure. There were 43 males and 20 females. In 48 (76%) there was a pathologic fracture at presentation, while in 15 (24%) it was impending. The most common histology was myeloma (22%) followed by lung and renal carcinoma which were 21% each. Complications occurred in 14 (22%) cases, and 7 (11%) required re-operation. The most common cause for re-operation was disease progression (5 of 7). At latest follow-up, 85% had no or mild pain and 80% required no or minimal assistance with activities of daily life (ADLs). Conclusion. Intralesional tumour resection and stabilisation of pathologic humerus fractures with the described technique has several attributes. It provides immediate, absolute rigidity and enables early pain relief and return of function without the need for osseous union. The patient's local disease burden is reduced, which alleviates tumour-related pain and slows disease progression. Finally, this technique is user-friendly and cost-effective as it does not require equipment or devices that are unavailable to community orthopaedic surgeons. The cemented plate technique provides a durable option for the treatment of impending and completed pathologic humerus fractures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_2 | Pages 87 - 87
1 Mar 2021
Bommireddy L Crimmins A Gogna R Clark DI
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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


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 17 - 17
1 Sep 2014
North D Held M Dix-Peek S Hoffman E
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Purpose of the study. To evaluate the outcome of the Modified French osteotomy for the correction of cubitus varus resulting from a supracondylar distal humerus fracture in children. Description of methods. A retrospective review of 90 children, aged 3 to 14, who underwent a modified French osteotomy between 1986 and 2012 for the correction of cubitus varus as a result of a supracondylar distal humerus fracture. Case notes and radiographs were reviewed. The carrying angle was measured clinically and radiologically pre-operatively, post-operatively and at latest follow up. Comparison was made with the unaffected side. The outcome was graded as good if the correction of the carrying angle was within 5 degrees of the unaffected side, satisfactory if the correction was more than 5 degrees of the unaffected side but cubitus valgus was restored and poor if there was persistence of cubitus varus post correction. Any intra-operative and post-operative complications were documented. Summary of results. The average age at the time of osteotomy was 8 years. Sixty-two percent of the patients were male. The left elbow was affected 61% of the time. The average delay from time of fracture to osteotomy was 24 months. The average post-operative follow up was 3.5 months. With regard to the correction of the cubitus varus, 83% of patients had a good outcome, 17% had a satisfactory outcome, with no poor outcomes. Post-operative complications were documented in 6 patients, 3 of which required re-operation. Conclusion. The modified French osteotomy has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for cubitus varus following supracondylar distal humerus fractures in children. NO DISCLOSURES


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 86-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 247 - 247
1 Mar 2004
Kentel M Lewczyk L Wodzislawski W Tokarczuk K Homik J
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Aim: The aim of our study was to evaluate the resultsof non- operative treatment of proximal (18) and middle (20) thirdof the humerus fracture in 38 patients (20 female and 18 male) inour Clinic between 1998–2001. We treated displaced proximal third ofthe humerus fracture without complications by skeletal traction andafter reposition by plaster. Oblique and transverse middle third ofthe humerus fracture was treated by Caldwell plaster. Average age ofthe patients was 37 years. The mean follow-up was 2,7years. Method: We examine patientsaccording to the classification of Stewar and-Hundley. Results: In the patients with proximalthird of the humerus fracture were obtained 8 very good, 8 good, 2poor results. In the patients with middle third of the humerusfracture were obtained 8 very good, 8 good, 2 fair, 2 poor results. Complications were observed in 4 cases: 2 non- union, 2fracture-union with angle position. Conclusion: Weconclude the non-operative method is useful in this kind of humerusfractures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_4 | Pages 89 - 89
1 Feb 2017
Levy J Kurowicki J
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Background. Peri-prosthetic humerus fractures are relatively uncommon occurrences that can be difficult to manage non-operatively. Locking plate technology has enhanced the surgical management of these fractures. We describe an osteosynthesis technique utilizing a locking plate with eccentrically placed screw holes to place “skive screws” in the proximal end of the plate to achieve fixation around the stem of the implant. Methods. A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed for a consecutive series of patients treated with this skive screw technique from May 2011 to September 2014. Seven patients presented with postoperative type B peri-prosthetic humerus fractures. Average follow-up was 24 months. Radiographic analysis was performed on most recent postoperative imaging. Clinical outcomes were assessed using VAS pain, ASES total score, ASES functional score, SST, SANE, range of motion and strength. Results. At an average of follow-up of 24 months, all patients demonstrated fracture healing. Functional outcomes were limited with only two patients achieving forward elevation above 90 degrees and average ASES Function score was 27.5. Pain relief was nearly uniform with an average VAS Pain score of 0.5 (Figure 1). Conclusions. Peri-prosthetic humeral shaft fractures can be successfully treated with hybrid fixation technique using a locking plate with eccentric holes that facilitate placement of proximal “skive screws”. Using this technique, a 100% union rate was observed with excellent pain relief


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 365 - 365
1 Jul 2011
Katsenis D Louris A Triantafyllis V Stathopoulos A Eikonomou H Pogiatzis K
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Our objective was to investigate the adequacy of the antegrade intramedullary nailing for the treatment of proximal and distal humeral fractures. From January 2004 to April 2008, 28 proximal humerus fractures and 9 distal humerus fractures were treated with intramedullary nailing. Mean age of the patients was 69-year-old (39–82). 26 patients were males. All fractures of the first group were treated with closed static intramedullary nailing whereas in the second group closed static intramedullary nailing was achieved in 7 fractures. The clinical and radiological outcomes were evaluated. All the proximal humerus fracture – but one – obtained bone-union at an average of 3 months (from 2 to 4 months). The mean follow up was 22 months (6–40). Functional outcome measured by Constant score showed 22 patients with an excellent and good result and 6 with a poor result. One case with osteonecrosis of the humeral head was recorded. Malunion of the greater tuberosity was recorded in 7 fractures. Only 5 distal humerus fractures united at an average of 5 months (from 4 to 7 months). Functional outcome measured by Burri – Lob score showed 3 patients with an excellent and good result and 6 with a poor result. Failure of the distal locking was noticed in 5 patients and 3 fractures united in valgus position. The antegrade closed intramedullary nailing is an effective treatment method for the proximal humerus fractures. However the role of the nailing for the distal humerus fractures is humeral nail is effective for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures remains