Double-column fixation for type C fractures of the distal humerus in the elderly.
BACKGROUND
Although several studies reported good results of open reduction and internal fixation of displaced fracture of the adult distal humerus, few studies have specifically addressed the results of such surgical fixation in osteoporotic bone in the elderly.


METHODS
This study focused on AO type C fractures in the elderly by using 2 plates for fixation of the lateral and medial columns to reconstruct a stable triangular frame of the distal humerus. The study comprised 35 patients, and 32 were available for final evaluation at a mean follow-up of 24.5 months (range, 14-60 months).


RESULTS
Mayo Elbow Function Score showed 25 patients (78%) achieved an excellent functional result, and 7 (22%) had a good result. No patients were considered to have a fair or poor result. At the final follow-up, the mean range of flexion to extension of the elbow was 22 degrees (range, 10 degrees -40 degrees) to 125 degrees (range, 100 degrees -140 degrees). All fractures united at average of 3.5 months (range, 2.5-5.3 months).


CONCLUSIONS
Open reduction and internal fixation using double-columned plating is a useful and effective technique in the management of displaced, comminuted, intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus in elderly patients.


METHODS
Level 4; Case series, treatment study.
Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, Peoples Republic of China.
Jun-jian
JJ
Liu
Hong-jiang
HJ
Ruan
Jian-guang
JG
Wang
Cun-yi
CY
Fan
Bing-fang
BF
Zeng
D000368:Aged; D001860:Bone Plates; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D017102:Fracture Healing / Q000502:physiology; D018460:Fractures, Comminuted / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D006810:Humeral Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D015601:Injury Severity Score; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D018570:Risk Assessment; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D000092464:Elbow Injuries