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Revista de la Asociación Médica del Centro Médico ABC

2004, Number 1

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An Med Asoc Med Hosp ABC 2004; 49 (1)

Fractures of the distal humerus in adults.Experience at the ABC Medical Center over the last five years

Castañeda LP, Decanini MA, Cassis ZN

Language: Spanish
References: 26
Page: 12-18
PDF size: 79.68 Kb.


ABSTRACT

The science of caring for fractures has greatly evolved over the last 20 years, yet, a difficult type of fractures, those about the elbow, and specifically fractures of the distal humerus in adults, are still a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. Modern techniques of open reduction and internal fixation provide a stable structure which allows for early postoperative motion. We reviewed 20 patients treated at the ABC Medical Center, from January 1998 until December 2002, with fracture of the distal humerus; the average follow-up was 51.35 months. The most frequent pattern seen was the supra-intercondylar type. All fractures healed, however two patients required a second intervention: one for removal of hardware and other for correction of malunion. Six patients presented subsequent deformity, only one required operative correction. The average range of motion was 4.5° to 108.5°. The functional results were evaluated using the Mayo Clinic Functional Index, and were excellent in 10 cases, good in six, fair in two and poor in two cases. The results are acceptable, and compare well with international literature on the subject. Treatment of these fractures is complex, but the application of modern concepts can produce satisfactory outcomes.


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