Distal Humerus-Operative Treatment Of Distal Humeral Fractures In The Elderly

Operative Treatment Of Distal Humeral Fractures In The Elderly

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This document discusses the operative treatment of distal humeral fractures in elderly patients. The study analyzed the results of 49 patients with an average age of 80 years who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for their fractures. The patients were followed up at an average of 18 months postoperatively. The patients' assessments of the results were mostly favorable, with 31% reporting a very good outcome and 49% reporting a good outcome. The flexion-extension range was also good in the majority of patients. The incidence of implant failure, pseudarthrosis of the olecranon osteotomy, and ulnar nerve lesion was not higher in the elderly patients compared to younger patients. The study concluded that old age should not be a contraindication for open reduction and internal fixation, as restoring full function is important. The study also discussed the operative technique used, including the approach, type of fixation, and postoperative care. The results were comparable to those reported in the literature for younger patients. Overall, the study suggests that operative treatment can be effective in elderly patients with distal humeral fractures and can lead to good functional outcomes.<br /><br />Note: The content has been summarized and may not include all the details from the original document.

Keywords

operative treatment

distal humeral fractures

elderly patients

open reduction and internal fixation

fracture outcomes

flexion-extension range

implant failure

pseudarthrosis

ulnar nerve lesion

operative technique