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Post-traumatic distal humerus non-union : Open reduction and internal fixation: long-term results
Christian Allende1, Bartolomé T Allende
1Division of Upper Extremity and Reconstructive Surgery, Sanatorio Allende - Hospital Nacional de Clínicas, Hipólito Irigoyen 384, Cordoba, 5000, Argentina. christian_allende@hotmail.com
International Orthopaedics
|August 30, 2008
Summary
Open reduction and internal fixation of distal humerus non-unions can achieve good long-term functional results. This study found improved elbow range of motion and function after surgical repair.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Distal humerus non-unions are challenging orthopedic injuries.
- Previous trauma and delayed treatment can complicate outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate long-term functional outcomes after surgical treatment of distal humerus non-unions.
- To assess the efficacy of open reduction and internal fixation in achieving bony union and functional recovery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 24 patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation for distal humerus non-unions.
- Classification of non-unions based on location (extra-articular-extracapsular, extra-articular-intracapsular, intra-articular).
- Assessment of preoperative and postoperative elbow range of motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, and pain levels.
Main Results:
- Average elbow range of motion improved significantly from 45 to 98 degrees post-surgery.
- Average DASH score was 16, indicating moderate functional impairment.
- Most patients reported no or mild pain at long-term follow-up (average 46 months).
Conclusions:
- Distal humerus non-unions require individualized surgical approaches.
- Open reduction and internal fixation can yield successful bony union and good long-term functional results despite procedural complexity.
