title: Compression plate arthrodesis of the elbow.
abstract: We reviewed 15 patients with an arthrodesis of the elbow using an AO compression-plate technique, after an average follow-up of 24 months. The most common indication was an open, infected high-energy injury with associated bone loss. Arthrodesis was successful in all but one patient in whom severe deep infection necessitated amputation. Eight patients were treated with the metal partly exposed in an infected wound. After removal of the metal, all wounds healed secondarily and none had clinical or radiographic signs of sepsis at latest review. Compression-plate arthrodesis of the elbow is a generally applicable method that can be used even in cases of severe bone loss. There appears to be greater certainty of union than with other techniques, and no increased risk of subsequent fracture.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Miami School of Medicine, Florida 33101.
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: McAuliffe
authors.forename: W E
authors.initials: WE
authors.lastname: Burkhalter
authors.forename: E A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Ouellette
authors.forename: R S
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Carneiro
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D001860:Bone Plates; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D014946:Wound Infection / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D000092464:Elbow Injuries