Ensafdaran N, Nooraie H, Saremy Z. DISPLACED- COMMINUTED INTRAARTICULAR FRACTURES OF THE ADULT DISTAL HUMERUS: FUNCTIONAL RESULTS AFTER INTERNAL FIXATION. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2006; 19 (4) :303-308
URL:
http://mjiri.iums.ac.ir/article-1-545-en.html
Department of Orthopedic surgery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, I.R. Iran , Ensaf@yahoo.com
Abstract: (4718 Views)
Background: Intra-articular T- type or Y- type fractures of the distal end of the
humerus are relatively rare, and consequently few surgeons will be able to attain extensive
experience with the surgical treatment of these injuries. The current emphasis is on
operative intervention with rigid internal fixation and early mobilization.
Methods: In this prospective and retrospective study, we reviewed a series of 38
displaced-comminuted intra-articular T-type or Y-type fractures of the distal end of
the humerus that were operated through the trans-olecranon approach by a single
surgeon and fixed by multiple pins and/or screws over an 8 year period from June
1995-July 2003.The fracture patterns were classified according to RR (RisboroughRadin)
and a strict rating scale (Jupiter et al.) incorporating subjective data, objective
motion, and the functional status of the involved elbow was used for the results.
Results: At a mean follow up of 18 months, 14 results were rated as excellent
15 results as good 6 results as fair and 3 results as poor. Complications included
postoperative ulnar nerve neuritis in one patient non-:::union::: in one patient elbow joint
stiffness in two patients superficial infection in three patients and pin protrusion in three
patients. Over-all, follow up examination showed 76% excellent and good results, 16%
fair results and 8% poor results.
Conclusion: We prefer anatomical reduction and stable fixation with pin and
screw with limited soft tissue dissection in adults and in old patients with good bone
quality.