Fijación quirúrgica de fracturas intra-articulares del húmero distal en adultos.

Soon JL, Chan BK, Low CO.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Changi General Hospital, 2 Simei Street 3, Singapore 529889, China.

We reviewed 15 adult patients with intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus treated over a period of 2 years. All patients underwent primary open reduction and internal fixation, which included 11 double plating procedures. The fractures were classified according to the AO/ASIF system. Patient outcome was assessed subjectively by scoring the patients' residual symptom of pain and their overall satisfaction of the treatment received. Objective assessment was performed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (range of motion, assessment of functional status, pain and stability of the joint). At a mean follow-up of 12.3 months, 7 patients were rated as excellent; 6, as good; one, as fair; and one, as poor. These cases had an average arc of flexion of 109.7 degrees. The sub-group of type C fractures without revision surgery had a mean flexion arc of 110.7 degrees (95-140 degrees ), with 100% Good to Excellent scores. Complications included two post-operative ulnar nerve neuropraxia, one wound infection, and one fracture fibrous non-union. Three patients required revision surgery which included a total elbow arthroplasty for implant failure, whilst four patients (including the patient with the subsequent arthroplasty) required joint mobilisation procedures for residual stiffness.

Injury. 2004 Jan;35(1):44-54.