Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Surgery & Research · Jul 18, 2017

First-line management of distal humerus fracture by total elbow arthroplasty in geriatric traumatology: Results in a 21-patient series at a minimum 2years' follow-up

By Lami D, Chivot M, Caubere A et al.

INTRODUCTION: Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is one option in distal humerus fracture in elderly osteoporotic patients. HYPOTHESIS: The study hypothesis was that, in patients aged 70years or more, TEA provides functional results and ranges of motion compatible with everyday activity, with a complications rate equal to or lower than with internal fixation, and no loss of autonomy or cognitive impairment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, 21 patients receiving TEA for distal humerus fracture were included. Mean follow-up was 3.2years, with functional (Quick DASH and MEPS), cognitive (MMSE), autonomy-related (ADL) and radiological assessment (Morrey). RESULTS: Mean MEPS was 84 and QuickDASH 32.4. Mean extension deficit was 22°, and mean flexion 125°. There was no loss of autonomy or cognitive impairment. The complications rate was 9.5%. There were no revision surgeries. DISCUSSION: TEA proved reliable in comminuted distal humerus fracture in elderly patients. Functional results were comparable to those in the literature, and the complications rate was lower. Long-term implant survival needs confirmation to validate this option as a treatment of choice in these indications in geriatric traumatology. TYPE OF STUDY: Retrospective non-comparative, single-center. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

doi.org/10.1016/j.otsr.2017.06.009Open accessPubMed 28733108Interventions