Clinical evaluation of double-plate osteosynthesis for olecranon fractures: A retrospective case-control study
Alexander Ellwein1, Konstantinos Argiropoulos2, Rony-Orijit DeyHazra2
1Department for Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical School Hannover, DIAKOVERE Annastift, Anna-von-Borries-Straße 1-7, 30625 Hannover, Germany; Department for Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, DIAKOVERE Friederikenstift, Humboldtstr 5, 30169 Hannover, Germany.
Introduction:
Single, dorsal plating is a commonly used technique for treating olecranon fractures. Double-plate osteosynthesis is an alternative treatment. Aim of this study was to present the surgical technique using this novel double-plate implant for olecranon fractures and review clinical results, complication rates and revision surgeries. Results were compared to single, dorsal plating.
Hypothesis:
Does double-plate osteosynthesis for olecranon fractures improve material's tolerance with respect to osteosynthesis by single dorsal plating?
Patients And Methods:
Between February 2011 and March 2015, we retrospectively evaluated 47 patients who were included in this study: 25 were treated with a low-profile double-plate osteosynthesis and 22 with an anatomically pre-shaped 3.5mm locking compression plate (LCP). The 2 groups were the result of a change of implants in our department in 2013. Patient satisfaction, range of motion, patient related outcome scores (Mayo Elbow Performance Score [MEPS], Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score [DASH]), complications and revision surgeries were evaluated. Results between both implant types were statistically compared using the Mann-Whitney U test.
Results:
After a mean follow-up of 41 months (range: 25-61), the low-profile double-plate group showed a range of motion of 127°, MEPS of 94 and DASH of 6. The 3.5mm LCP group was found to have a range of motion of 130°, MEPS of 96 and DASH of 8. No clinical difference was found between groups. A total of 9 revision surgeries after double-plate osteosynthesis were recorded including seven implant removals and two intraarticular screws. One loosening of a screw without revision surgery was reported. The 3.5mm LCP group had 9 revision surgeries including eight implant removals and one intraarticular screw.
Discussion:
Low-profile double-plate osteosynthesis is a safe and effective alternative treatment of olecranon fractures. Subjective and objective clinical outcome measures revealed a low complication rate and excellent results. Still, implant removal due to soft tissue irritation remains an issue. These findings were comparable to common dorsal plate osteosynthesis.
Level Of Evidence:
III, retrospective case-control study.
