R. Gambirasio et al., Total elbow replacement for complex fractures of the distal humerus - An option for the elderly patient, J BONE-BR V, 83B(7), 2001, pp. 974-978
Citations number
36
Categorie Soggetti
Ortopedics, Rehabilitation & Sport Medicine","da verificare
The treatment of multifragmentary, intra-articular fractures of the distal
humerus is difficult, even in young patients with bone of good quality, but
is worse in elderly patients who have varying degrees of osteopenia. We ha
ve evaluated the functional outcome of primary total elbow replacement (TER
) in the treatment of these fractures in ten elderly patients followed for
a minimum of one year. There were no complications in regard to the soft ti
ssues, bone or prosthesis. The mean range of flexion obtained was 125 degre
es (110 to 140) and loss of extension was 23.5 degrees (0 to 50). The mean
Mayo score was 94 points (80 to 100) and patient satisfaction was high. We
feel that TER provides an alternative to open reduction and internal fixati
on in the management of these complicated fractures in the elderly.