Bridge plating is an effective adjunct treatment for complex elbow instability.
Adeeba A Albadran1, Saad M AlQahtani2, Ruby Grewal3
1Section of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAAUH), Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|April 20, 2024
Summary
Bridge plating can stabilize complex elbow instability, but it is associated with a high complication rate and often requires a second surgery for removal. Further research is needed to optimize outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Persistent elbow instability and chronic dislocations pose significant management challenges.
- Traditional treatments often have high complication rates.
- Bridge plating is explored as an alternative for complex elbow instability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy and outcomes of bridge plating in treating complex elbow instability.
- To analyze complications associated with bridge plating in elbow injuries.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 11 patients treated with bridge plating for complex elbow instability.
- Data collected included patient characteristics, treatment duration, range of motion, complications, and evaluation scores.
Main Results:
- Mean follow-up was 80 weeks. Mean age was 53 years. Bridge plating was used for various complex elbow injuries.
- Mean duration of plating was 121 days. Postoperative motion improved but remained limited in some cases.
- A 55% complication rate was observed, with 36% directly attributed to the bridge plate, including heterotopic ossification and ulnar neuropathy. Mean patient-rated elbow evaluation score was 34.
Conclusions:
- Bridge plating effectively maintains joint reduction in selected complex elbow instability cases.
- High complication rates and the need for secondary surgery for plate removal are significant considerations.
- Careful patient selection is crucial for successful bridge plating outcomes in complex elbow injuries.
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