Ergebnisse der multidirektional-winkelstabilen Versorgung distaler Humerusfrakturen: Klinische Ergebnisse und Komplikationen

Translated title of the contribution: Results of the treatment of distal humeral fractures using multidirectional angular stable implants: Clinical results and complications

V. Kuhlwilm, A. P. Schulz, F. Renken*

*Corresponding author for this work

Abstract

Background: The treatment of patients with distal humeral fractures and reduced bone quality or complex fracture patterns is still complicated. Using angular stable implants should lead to better functional results. Objective: The clinical and functional results were analyzed as well as the complications after treatment of patients with distal humeral fractures using angular stable plate osteosynthesis. Material and methods: A questionnaire was sent to patients treated in our hospital for distal humeral fractures and they were invited for a follow-up examination. We investigated the DASH (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Head) score, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and EQ-5D-3 L for evaluation of functional results, as well as the VAS (“visuelle Analogskala”) score for evaluation of pain. Using radiographs the fracture patterns were classified and interpreted for complications. Results: A total of 28 patients returned the questionnaire after a minimum of 6 months following the operation and 10 attended a follow-up examination in our clinic. The DASH score was 38.40 and the MEPS 72.31. The results for 15 patients were good to excellent. The EQ-5D-3 L was 0.790 and the VAS 2.76. We found a significant correlation between the DASH score and patient age (p = 0.028), as well as an inverse correlation of the DASH score and the EQ-5D-3 L (p < 0.001). The complication rate was 53.6%. The three biggest groups of complications were neuronal complications, healing disorders and problems with the osteosynthesis material. Discussion: The treatment results showing that unsatisfactory results are possible even if angular stable plates are used. An inferior functional result as assessed by the DASH score reduces the quality of life measured by EQ-5D-3 L. A follow-up after 6 months appears to be sufficient to assess the outcome after complicated distal humeral fractures.

Translated title of the contributionResults of the treatment of distal humeral fractures using multidirectional angular stable implants: Clinical results and complications
Original languageGerman
JournalTrauma und Berufskrankheit
Volume20
Issue number2
Pages (from-to)134-144
Number of pages11
ISSN1436-6274
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01.06.2018

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